LONDON (Special Correspondent): Waqar Malik, a journalist long‑resident in the United Kingdom, has written to the Prime Minister and the Home Secretary expressing deep concern that UK soil is being exploited to spread hatred, incite violence, and undermine stability in Pakistan.
In his communication, Mr Malik highlights that certain individuals within British‑Pakistani and British‑Kashmiri communities are using false narratives and disinformation to issue open death threats against Pakistan’s political leaders, police, and armed forces. He states that these elements are systematically sowing division and hatred among people in Pakistan from their base in the UK, illegally channelling funds through unregulated networks to favoured political groups, and financing acts of violence and targeted killings back home. He further notes that these same groups operate rival factions within the UK, often engaging in conflict among themselves.
The journalist asks: “If protests in the UK turn violent, if property is damaged, or if police and public officials are abused or assaulted, the authorities act swiftly and firmly. Yet we see with deep regret that when protesters in Pakistan open fire on security forces and violate the law, the root causes of this disorder can be traced back to actors operating freely from the UK – claiming to exercise their right to peaceful protest here, while secretly working to destabilise and destroy Pakistan’s peace and democratic foundations.”
He calls on the UK Government to hold to account all those who misuse their residence and rights in Britain to harm the security, unity, and prosperity of another country.
Home Office Response
In an official reply dated 15 July 2026, the Home Office thanked Waqar Malik for raising matters of significant public concern and for bringing these issues to the attention of the Government.
The Home Secretary emphasised clearly that individuals involved in such negative activities, who misuse UK territory for unlawful ends or are linked to threats directed at Pakistan, may face legal action under British law. Evidence will be gathered systematically and properly to establish facts, and where cases are proven, those responsible will be dealt with in accordance with the law.The Home Office further stated that the United Kingdom is a nation governed by the rule of law. While it firmly protects the rights to freedom of expression and peaceful protest, it is equally committed to enforcing the law against anyone who engages in violence, criminal conduct, intimidation, or incitement. The Government made clear that no individual or group is above the law and that all allegations supported by credible evidence will be considered and dealt with through the appropriate legal processes.
The response underlined that the UK authorities keep matters affecting public safety, community cohesion, and national security under constant review. Where sufficient evidence exists that individuals are promoting violence, inciting hatred, financing criminal activities, or encouraging unrest at home or abroad, the Government and law enforcement agencies will take action in accordance with British law.
The Home Office also confirmed that the concerns raised have been referred to the independent review led by Lord Macdonald of River Glaven KC.
The response states:
The Government upholds the right to peaceful protest as fundamental to our democracy, but this does not extend to unlawful behaviour, violence, harassment, or incitement of hatred. Freedom of speech is a cornerstone value – but it is not absolute, and speech that incites violence, discrimination, or criminality will be met with the full force of the law. The Public Order Act 1986 gives police robust powers to manage protests, prevent serious disorder, and take action against intimidation or harassment, while protecting legitimate freedom of expression.”
It further explains that the Home Secretary launched a full review of public order and hate‑crime legislation on 5 October, chaired by Lord Macdonald – a former Director of Public Prosecutions and one of the UK’s most senior legal figures. The review will assess whether existing laws and police powers remain fit for purpose, adequately protect communities from intimidation and harm, and strike the right, proportionate balance between free speech, peaceful protest, and public safety. The final report was submitted to the Home Secretary at the end of May, and the Government will publish its formal response once it has been fully considered.
Mr Malik welcomed the Government’s commitment to the rule of law and expressed hope that anyone found responsible for inciting violence, hatred, or criminal conduct will be dealt with fairly and firmly under British law, irrespective of their political or community affiliations.
