Kemi Badenoch has defended shadow Justice secretary Nick Timothy after he described a high-profile Open Iftar event in Trafalgar Square as “an act of domination and division,” triggering a sharp political and public backlash.
The controversy stems from remarks made by Timothy following the Ramadan Tent Project’s Open Iftar gathering, which brought together thousands of people of different faiths to break their fast in central London.
In a social media post, Timothy argued that “mass ritual prayer in public places is an act of domination,” a statement widely criticised by political opponents and community leaders.
Badenoch publicly backed her colleague and expanded on her concerns, stating:
“I’m very uncomfortable with seeing women pushed to the back in the middle of Trafalgar Square in an event which is exclusionary.
“I will not take lectures from Keir Starmer or Labour on this because in 2021 Keir Starmer pulled out of an event organised by this very same group who are highly controversial.
“This is not about stopping anyone from any religion from practising their faith. We want to see religious festivities in Trafalgar Square but they have to be inclusive and also respectful of British culture.” The Tory leader said.
The remarks have intensified political tensions in the UK. Starmer condemned Timothy’s comments during Prime Minister’s Questions, calling them “utterly appalling” and urging Badenoch to remove him from his position. He argued the comments reflected a broader “problem with Muslims” within the Conservative Party.
Sadiq Khan also denounced the remarks, describing them as divisive and emphasising that the Open Iftar symbolised inclusivity, with people from “all faiths, races and backgrounds” participating in the event.
Open Iftar
The Open Iftar, organised annually during Ramadan, is part of a broader effort to promote interfaith dialogue and community cohesion in London. Similar religious and cultural events—including Diwali, Chanukah, and Easter celebrations—have long been hosted in Trafalgar Square, reflecting the city’s multicultural character.
