Dr. Muhammad Wajid Akhtar is a doctor, community leader, and Secretary General of the Muslim Council of Britain, the UK’s largest Muslim umbrella organization representing hundreds of mosques, charities, schools, and community organizations. He previously served as Vice President of the British Islamic Medical Association and has led initiatives focused on healthcare, civic engagement, and Muslim community empowerment across the UK.

In today’s episode of CAIR On AIR, Dr. Akhtar joins me to discuss the major political shift happening in Britain and why so many Muslims are deeply concerned about the rise of right-wing politics, anti-Muslim rhetoric, and increasing social division.

Dr. Akhtar breaks down the major factors fueling support for political movements targeting Muslims and immigrants. He explains why the right wing has become more effective at creating division and why progressive movements have struggled with focus.

We dive into the political disengagement within Muslim communities and why many Muslims failed to participate in recent elections despite understanding what was at stake. Dr. Akhtar also explains the importance of building real political infrastructure, leadership, and community coordination.

Our discussion also covers the dangers of fear, hopelessness, and community fragmentation. Dr. Akhtar shares why unity, organization, and political engagement are becoming more important than ever.

Join us today as we discuss the rise of anti-Muslim politics, why many people are turning toward the far right, the failures of Muslim political organizations, lessons from history, the importance of leadership and unity, how communities can build long term power, and much more.