Muslim Demonstration in London against European Newspaper Cartoons
London, UK, February 2 – Hundreds of Muslims from across the UK will demonstrate in London this Saturday (February 4th) against the printing of caricatures of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) by leading European newspapers. The peaceful demonstration entitled "Defend the Honour of the Prophet" will take place outside the Royal Danish Embassy in London. The demonstration is organised by the Islamic political party Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain.
The reprinting of the caricatures in the name of "freedom of speech" has once again illustrated that the "war on terror" means it is open season on Muslims and Islam. Western governments hold aloft the banner of "freedom of speech" when it comes to insulting Muslims and Islam, yet attempt to silence through fear, intimidation and draconian legislation, Muslims who criticise Western foreign policy or adhere to the Islamic injunctions on dress.
Dr Imran Waheed, a media representative of Hizb ut-Tahrir Britain, said, "Muslims do not fear debate. Although we are ready to hear and respond to criticism, we will not remain silent over cheap insults in the name of 'freedom of speech'. While some Western governments seek to silence opposition to their brutal occupation of Iraq through medieval laws and others prevent Muslim women from wearing the Islamic dress, they expect Muslims to accept their 'freedom' to insult and disparage Muslims and Islam. The use of cheap insults behind the veil of 'free speech' is further evidence that the battle for the hearts and minds of Muslims has been lost."
"We note the further decay of secular liberal societies who believe that it is perfectly acceptable to insult and defame religious communities whether they are Muslims, Christians or Jews. The Islamic Caliphate historically ensured that Muslims and non-Muslims were protected from such wanton disrespect."
The peaceful demonstration will take place on Saturday 4th February 2006 at 12.00 p.m. outside the Royal Danish Embassy [55 Sloane Street, London, SW1X 9SR; nearest underground Knightsbridge/Sloane Square].
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