Anger at Keighley mayor's apology - for taking part in Pride event

Councillor Mohammed Nazam participated in the ceremony, held annually in Keighley's Town Hall Square, on Friday.

But he has subsequently posted on a Facebook page called Keighley Pakistanis that he "wholeheartedly" apologises for participating in the event, and describes his decision as a "lapse in judgment".

His comments have sparked a furious public reaction, and calls for him to stand down as mayor.

Cllr Nazam, who also represents Keighley Central ward on Bradford Council, said in his post: "I wholeheartedly apologise for my participation in the flag-raising ceremony, as it contradicts my personal religious beliefs, as many of you are aware.

"I want to emphasise that I have also personally repented for this error and reflected deeply on the consequences of my actions. Looking back, I realise that I should have respectfully declined the request at the time.

"While I’m unwavering in my commitment to uphold my deep-rooted religious beliefs as a faithful Muslim, I want to emphasise that I actively support and promote tolerance for individuals of all faiths, creeds and colours, as my faith and the law of the land requires me to do.

"It is my hope that the people who have placed their trust in me within our community can find it in their hearts to forgive me for this lapse in judgment.

"I understand the disappointment and hurt my actions may have caused, and I am truly sorry for any distress or confusion I have contributed to.

"My aim has always been to represent the best interests of the people of Keighley Central ward and residents of wider Keighley, and I hope my future actions will demonstrate my commitment to serving our community with fairness and inclusivity."

Keighley MP Robbie Moore, who was also at the Pride flag-raising ceremony, is amongst those critical of Cllr Nazam's comments and is calling on him to "apologise and consider his position".

"I was exceptionally proud to join the Keighley Pride team for the raising of the flag in Keighley’s Town Hall Square," he says.

"Everyone should be free to love who they choose and be who they are. Love is Love.

"I’ve seen comments made by Keighley’s town mayor, Cllr Mohammed Nazam, stating that he feels the need to apologise for his part in the flag-raising ceremony and the need for him to 'personally repent for his error' because of religious beliefs.

"I disagree and reject the mayor’s comments.

"I am proud we live in a country where people can be who they want to be and are free to choose who they love.

"The role of the town mayor is to represent everyone within the community, and therefore it was deeply disheartening to read the mayor’s statement.

"The mayor needs to apologise and consider his position.

"We have a fantastic community across Keighley which I will always stand up for. As your Member of Parliament I will ensure everyone is represented."

Helen Hallam, from Oakworth, a trustee of Out in the Valley LGBTQ group, said she was "bewildered" by Cllr Nazam's comments.

She adds: "Mr mayor, we live in a secular society and have a diverse community. If this is not to your liking, why accept the honour of being town mayor? In my humble opinion you should resign forthwith.

"Our town has worked hard to achieve an integrated community.

"In Keighley we have a number of gay and lesbian people of Muslim heritage and the situation is never easy for them. The mayor's apology is not the most helpful action to heal the abuse they suffer."

Former town mayor Julie Adams adds her condemnation.

"The raising of the Pride flag is something I introduced in my term as mayor and was keen for Keighley Town Council to continue the tradition," she says.

"I was therefore appalled to read his post on Facebook sharing his regret at doing so. The town mayor is the first citizen of Keighley and should serve the whole of the electorate. If he cannot do this then he should not be afforded the office of mayor."

Cllr Nazam was contacted and said he would comment, but nothing has yet been received.