LONDON (AA) - Tommy Robinson, the leader of the anti-Islam group, the English Defence League (EDL), has left the organisation saying that he can no longer keep extremist elements at bay.
In a press release which appeares on the Quilliam foundation's website, the organisation announced that Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Lennon, and his deputy, Kevin Carroll, were leaving the organisation.
Tommy Robinson said in the web statement, “I have been considering this move for a long time because I recognise that, though street demonstrations have brought us to this point, they are no longer productive. I acknowledge the dangers of far-right extremism and the ongoing need to counter Islamist ideology not with violence but with better, democratic ideas.”
The Quilliam foundation claims to be a counter-extremist think tank. It’s co-founders were former members of the Islamic group Hizb-ul-Tahrir.
“As well as being a very positive change for the United Kingdom, this is a very proud moment for Quilliam. This represents not a change but a continuation for us, as challenging extremism of all kinds forms the basis of our work. We have been able to show that Britain stands together against extremism regardless of political views and hope to continue supporting Tommy and Kevin in their journey to counter Islamism and neo-Nazi extremism,” Quilliam foundation meanwhile said on the resignation.
The English Defence League became infamous for their anti-Islamic demonstrations carried out across the UK that from time to time turned violent. Members of the group have also been convicted for violent and racist attacks, including attacks targeting mosques.
Unite Against Fascism who has opposed the EDL from the outset was sceptical of the recent news. Joint national secretary, Weyman Bennett speaking to Anadolu Agency said, “We believe that Tommy Robinson cannot overcome mass opposition, but we have yet to see if he has rejected the racism of Islamophobia and changed his views.”
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