It is pretty clear now that Omar Bakri Mohammed will not be returning to these shores. I doubt whether, in any event, he would have taken much notice of this petition:
British Muslims do not welcome Omar Bakri Mohammad back to the UK
However, as a historical document, it is worth looking at. Some impressive names on the petition as well…
To Omar Bakri Mohammad,
We, British Muslims, urge you not to return to the United Kingdom.
You have caused enough trouble already. Your statements, pronouncements and fatwas are neither supported nor looked kindly upon – except by the British media which seems to have a strange love-affair with you.
You have single-handedly sought to destroy good community relations and have been an obstacle to the progress of British Muslims in becoming integral citizens who live, as stated in the shariah, according to the law of this land.
Our varied vision of Islam in Britain does not include yours. We emphasise mercy, tolerance and diversity while you emphasise hate, violence, hypocrisy and separation from others. If the United Kingdom is as bad as you teach your minions, then you have no reason to live here.
You are a poor example of the Prophetic message (peace and blessings be upon him) and for that alone you should stay out of this country and our lives forever.
Sincerely,
The Undersigned
In particular, read the rider at the top of the Petition:
12 Aug – This appeal to OBM was written when he left the UK *willingly*. It’s not for media, whose interview offers were refused by us. It’s not meant for government, whose anti-terror policies are troubling. We oppose deportation to countries with dubious human rights records. The recent banning of OBM is also concerning. While we reject his ways, we believe in the rule of law. Equally, scaremongering – “Omar Bakri today, us tomorrow” shouldn’t prevent us from speaking the truth. If, one day, we are prevented from practising Islam, we will leave the UK. But, this is not that day. We wear hijab, perform salat, eat halal, pay zakaat, go to hajj and protest against govt policies, including the illegal invasion of Iraq. This country never stopped us. Whereas, Mr Bakri’s glorification of suicide bombings, which he frequently and readily makes available to the media, are against the teachings of the Prophet (saw). Don’t be afraid to say this – unity based on false pretences is hardly unity.