London: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak delivered a powerful address outside 10 Downing Street, emphasizing the critical importance of protecting democracy in the face of escalating extremist threats. He warned against divisive forces seeking to dismantle the nation’s unity and undermine its rich tapestry of multi-faith identity.
“I fear that our great achievement in building the world’s most successful multi-ethnic, multi-faith democracy is being deliberately undermined. There are forces here at home trying to tear us apart,” Sunak solemnly declared.
Drawing from his personal Hindu beliefs, Sunak underscored the inclusive ethos of the UK, highlighting the invaluable contributions of immigrants from diverse faiths and backgrounds. “Immigrants who have come here have integrated and contributed. They have helped write the latest chapter in our island story,” he remarked.
In a poignant appeal, Sunak urged vigilance against allowing peaceful demonstrations to be hijacked by extremist elements. “You can be a practicing Hindu and a proud Briton as I am, or a devout Muslim and a patriotic citizen as so many are, or a committed Jewish person and the heart of your local community, and all underpinned by the tolerance of our established Christian church,” he emphasized.
Sunak’s address comes in the wake of a contentious byelection in Greater Manchester, which saw the victory of George Galloway amidst heightened tensions surrounding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Describing the outcome as “beyond alarming,” Sunak highlighted the concerning trend of divisive politics gaining ground.
Addressing the symbiotic relationship between Islamist extremists and the far right, Sunak stressed their shared goal of undermining Britain’s pluralist values. “Both loathe the pluralist, modern country we are,” he asserted, condemning their attempts to sow discord and erode national confidence.
As the UK’s first non-white Prime Minister, Sunak reaffirmed his commitment to fostering inclusivity and meritocracy. “It is not the colour of your skin, the God you believe in, or where you were born that will determine your success but just your own hard work and endeavour,” he affirmed, championing the principles of equality and opportunity.
Sunak reiterated that violence and intimidation have no place in British society, urging steadfast resistance against such threats. “Threats of violence and intimidation are alien to the British way of doing things and must be resisted at all times,” he concluded, emphasizing the imperative of safeguarding democratic values against extremist onslaughts.
