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UK mosque rebukes comission’s ‘warning’ following Palestine comments
The Lewisham Islamic Centre has rejected an official warning from the Charity Commission over an imam’s comments about Palestinian suffering in sermons in October 2023. The centre says the regulator is interfering with legitimate religious worship and solidarity with Palestinians, raising concerns about how far it can influence topics discussed in sermons.
The Commission said two sermons contained material it considered inflammatory, divisive and not in the charity’s best interests. Its warning, issued on 20 October, told the centre to improve its handling of speakers and events, and said further action could follow if it did not address the alleged misconduct. The mosque says the expectations are burdensome and is seeking legal advice; human rights group CAGE International has also criticised the regulator’s approach.
In short
- Lewisham Islamic Centre rejects a Charity Commission warning over sermon comments.
- The regulator cited two sermons delivered in October 2023.
- The mosque is seeking legal advice on its next steps.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The Charity Commission can argue that charities must ensure their activities serve their charitable purposes and do not expose communities to inflammatory or divisive material. A warning and requirements for better oversight of speakers may be a proportionate way to address conduct the regulator considers harmful, while preserving the charity’s ability to operate.
The case against
The centre can argue that sermons about Palestinian suffering and solidarity are legitimate religious and humanitarian expression, and that regulatory intervention risks chilling worship and debate on a significant political issue. It may also contend that the warning’s broad expectations impose a heavy burden and could give the regulator undue influence over what religious leaders discuss.