Beyond Elections - A Guide to Real Power-Building

London – CAGE International announces the launch of The Conscious Muslim Guide, a 10-point plan aimed at, but not limited to, British Muslims which sets out practical guidance and a strategic vision of political engagement in the UK. This initiative seeks to empower communities to drive meaningful change beyond traditional political participation.
 
The launch of the guide takes place amidst a growing disillusionment with how Westminster-based politics is being conducted across the UK. Public trust in the ability of the main political parties to deliver change is declining. This is reflected in the record low voter turnout of this year’s general election. Although the Labour Party won a ‘landslide victory’ in last month’s general election, voter turnout stood at 59.9% - the lowest since 2001. According to a survey on populism conducted by Ipsos, 70% of Britons agree the economy benefits the rich and powerful, 66% say traditional parties and politicians do not care about the average citizen and 71% say the political and economic elite do not care about hard-working people [3]. These statistics reveal a demoralised and disillusioned society. 
 
It is in this light that the guidance advises against an over reliance on the party-political system, which has been compromised. These flaws are exemplified by the concerted and coordinated campaign launched by the new Labour administration and its supporters  to vilify and marginalise the so called “Muslim Vote“ as partisan and sectarian simply because the campaigns exposed the complicity of politicians in the genocide in Gaza. This is a clear signal and warning that any dissent within the framework of Westminster politics will not be tolerated, and those who dare will face smears and oppression. It also belies a misconception that Muslims are only motivated out of self-interest whereas the reality is that Muslims are, and must be concerned, with the issues impacting all of society. Therefore the call is to build influence through strategic activism in various spheres of public life, from schools to trade unions, and the establishment of dedicated institutions and think tanks. The bias and hostility of mainstream media has been exposed and can only be countered by developing grassroots journalism and utilising social media effectively. For Muslims, in particular, there is a call for the creation of transnational networks to support the global Muslim diaspora and stresses the importance of legal advocacy to defend basic freedoms and Islamic values.
 
The guidance emphasises the development of psychological resilience, a firm sense of purpose, and the importance of maintaining one's dignity and honour. It calls on all sections of society to embrace a just struggle by standing up against oppression and injustices, such as the genocide in Gaza, and to support ethical practices that empower communities worldwide. By fostering financial independence and promoting grassroots activism, the plan aims to build a robust and self-reliant community with agency over its affairs. The launch of the The Conscious Muslim Guide this week intersects with major political shifts occurring in the UK, across Europe and the wider world, leading to the disenfranchisement of many communities. The Guide provides the tools and resources to empower communities through a bottom up approach, prioritising community-led activism and representation.
 
Muhammad Rabbani, Managing Director of CAGE International, said:

“The UK’s main political parties are betraying the trust of the people they claim to represent and are no longer providing effective solutions to the many issues our society faces. Our communities are in desperate need of alternative methods of governance and leadership. The Conscious Muslim Guide can be a blueprint for all communities, and not just Muslims, on the need to take back power from a system that has failed us all. 

It follows the quintessential British tradition of community organising and civic resistance as exemplified by the Quaker movement and other minority communities. Moreover, localism and independence from state overreach is integral to the Islamic model of governance. By positioning the levers of power in the hands of the ordinary citizen, the Guide seeks to prevent apathy and redistribute power to benefit society as a whole.”