Controversial TfL Adverts Stir Criticism Over Double Standards

Transport for London (TfL) faces backlash over its decision to allow adverts featuring Islamic preacher Ismail ibn Musa Menk, despite previous bans from several countries. The controversy arises as these advertisements appear on tubes and buses, promoting Islamic finance startup Wahed with the slogan “withdraw from exploitation.” The ads show Mr. Menk holding flaming U.S. dollars, stirring discussions around their appropriateness.

Critics have pointed out that Mr. Menk, also known as Mufti Menk, has faced bans from entering Singapore and Denmark due to accusations of promoting divisive teachings. The Majlisul Ulama Zimbabwe, an Islamic school associated with Menk, defended him by stating these decisions were based on misunderstood lectures.

In the UK, politicians and commuters question why TfL approved such ads while maintaining a strict policy against other types of advertising, such as junk food. Susan Hall, a Conservative member of the London Assembly, noted, “If Wahed had wanted to advertise their platform with a high-calorie meal on the Tube, it would be banned, but apparently a preacher banned from other countries is fine.”

TfL’s policy on advertising foods that are high in fat, sugar, and salt stands in contrast with its approval of Wahed’s ads. Earlier this year, TfL banned comedian Ed Gamble‘s posters for including an image of a hot dog, due to its stringent healthy eating guidelines.

The debate extends beyond food restrictions. Some Londoners question why an advertisement featuring Khabib Nurmagomedov, a Russian-linked fighter celebrated by Chechnya’s Ramzan Kadyrov, allies of Russia’s Vladimir Putin, is permitted amid geopolitical tensions surrounding Russia.

TfL spokesperson explained, “This advert was reviewed and found to comply with our advertising policy.” However, Mayor Sadiq Khan, who has been accused of prioritizing political correctness over practical decisions, has faced sharp criticism.

Londoners continue to demand clarity on TfL’s advertising policies, while political adversaries accuse Khan of pushing an agenda that allegedly neglects Londoners’ values. As politicians and commentators deliberate the seeming discrepancies in TfL’s rules, the issues surrounding advertisement policies persist, questioning the alignment with public expectations.