Leicester Mercury

Saturday, January 09, 2010, 09:30

Muslim community leaders have condemned a radical Islamic group's plan to stage an anti-war protest in the town famous for honouring Britain's war dead.

The Leicestershire Federation of Muslim Organisations said the group behind proposed march in Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire, was "small and insignificant".

Islam4UK attracted widespread criticism after it revealed its intention to parade through the town carrying coffins to signify Afghan civilians killed by British forces.

The Leicestershire federation, which represents most mosques and Muslim community groups in the city and county, said its members had urged it to speak out.

Spokesman Suleman Nagdi said: "Muslims deeply regret loss of life, whether it is civilians in Iraq, Afghanistan or soldiers of our British armed forces.

"Popular opposition by many UK citizens to the war is well known but our energies should be directed through peaceful means to our Government and not targeted at our soldiers or their families.

"Instead our thoughts and sympathies should be extended to everyone affected by both conflicts and we should all reflect on the value and sanctity of human life.

"An estimated 2.5 million Muslims served Britain during the First and Second World War and still remain the second highest represented faith in the UK armed forces."

Yesterday, a group of Islamic activists in Leicester sent a press release to the Mercury saying it hoped to send two coaches of supporters to the demonstration.

Islam4UK and the Leicester group said they would aim to avoid a date which coincided with a repatriation ceremony.

Abu Abdur Rahman, an Islamic activist in Leicester, said in the press statement: "The support has been fantastic. We feel we can get at least enough people to fill two coaches to go from Leicester, quite possibly a lot more."

However, Mr Nagdi said Islam4UK had little or no backing in Leicestershire.

Authorities in Wiltshire said Islam4UK had to apply for permission to march at least six days in advance.

Wiltshire police said last night it had not yet received an application from the group.

Wootton Bassett has become famous for its repatriation ceremonies for British troops killed in Afghanistan.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown branded the group's proposal "disgusting", while thousands of people have signed online petitions against the march.