A convicted terrorist who once plotted to bomb a British consulate and other targets is now running for local office in Birmingham, England’s second-largest city, sparking public outrage and political condemnation. The campaign underscores rising concerns over extremism, public safety, and electoral eligibility laws in Western democracies.
A man previously convicted in Yemen for his role in planning a 1999 bombing plot against the British consulate in Aden is now campaigning for a seat on the Birmingham City Council. The candidate, Shahid Butt, served time in prison for the plot that also included planned attacks on an Anglican church and a Swiss-owned hotel, and was convicted along with other Britons and Algerians.
Butt’s candidacy is drawing intense criticism from British political leaders and the public. Labour MP Sureena Brackenridge described the situation as “absolutely appalling,” saying it is “shocking” that someone found guilty of terrorism could run to represent residents in the Sparkhill ward.
Despite his conviction, Butt insists his confession was coerced under torture and claims the case was fabricated — arguments that were dismissed by the judge at the time, and which have not changed the legal status of his conviction. Under current UK law, his past conviction does not legally bar him from standing for local government.
Birmingham Conservatives have openly pushed back against his candidacy. Party leader Robert Alden invited television personality Sharon Osbourne to stand for the same council seat in hopes of preventing Butt from gaining office. Labour Party figures have also voiced strong objections, framing the campaign as a dangerous precedent that could undermine public trust in local governance.
Butt’s political platform includes pro-Gaza positions and criticism of Western foreign policy that have resonated in his ward where demographic composition and distinct community interests already fuel political tensions. Sparkhill’s population is predominantly Muslim, and residents are divided between those who emphasize rehabilitation and inclusion versus those who view his candidacy as a threat to local safety and cohesion.
The controversy reaches broader questions about eligibility criteria for public office, particularly regarding individuals with records tied to militant violence. Critics argue that allowing convicted terrorists to run for and potentially win office jeopardizes public safety and disrespects victims of terrorism, while defenders emphasize legal rights to political participation once individuals have served their sentences.
Elections in Birmingham are scheduled for May 7, and Butt’s candidacy remains active. The debate over his suitability reflects deeper cultural and political divides in the UK, as communities grapple with how to balance civil liberties with protecting citizens from extremist influence.
