Reform UK Mayoral Candidate Sparks Backlash Over Burqa Remarks

Laila Cunningham, Reform UK’s newly announced mayoral candidate for London, has drawn widespread criticism after suggesting that Muslims wearing burqas should face stop-and-search checks, Wion news agency reported.

Speaking on a podcast, Cunningham, a British-born Muslim of Egyptian descent, said parts of London “feel like a Muslim city,” citing signs in different languages and burqas being sold in local markets. She argued that no one should cover their face in an open society and that hiding one’s face should be assumed to indicate criminal intent.

Her remarks prompted sharp responses from political and community leaders. London Mayor Sadiq Khan condemned comments that “sow division,” emphasizing that the city’s strength lies in its diversity and freedom of religion. Shaista Gohir, CEO of the Muslim Women’s Network UK, described the statements as “dangerous” and a “dog whistle” to racists, warning they could embolden anti-Muslim abuse. Labour MP Afzal Khan called the comments “a deliberate and cynical ploy” aimed at injecting divisive ideas into society for electoral gain.

Cunningham’s statements have ignited debate over multiculturalism, religious freedom, and civic identity in London ahead of her candidacy for the 2028 mayoral election.