Scottish First Minister John Swinney has launched a blistering attack on Reform UK councillors, branding their claims about sharia law zones operating in Scottish cities as "ludicrous," "absurd," and "deeply divisive."
The political firestorm erupted after newly elected Reform councillors in Glasgow and Edinburgh made sensational allegations about parallel Islamic legal systems operating within their constituencies. The claims, which have been widely circulated on social media, suggest that certain areas of Scotland's largest cities are governed by religious rather than civil law.
Mr Swinney didn't mince his words when confronted with these allegations during a press briefing at Holyrood. "These claims are not only completely false but represent a dangerous attempt to sow division within our communities," the First Minister stated.
The controversy comes amid growing political tensions following recent local elections that saw Reform UK make significant gains in council seats across Scotland. The party's success has raised concerns among established political parties about the potential for inflammatory rhetoric to enter mainstream political discourse.
Community Leaders Back Swinney's Stance
Muslim community representatives and interfaith groups have unanimously supported the First Minister's position, describing the sharia law zone claims as "fantasy" and "fear-mongering." Several prominent religious leaders have emphasised that sharia councils in Britain only operate on a voluntary basis for civil matters and cannot override UK law.
One Glasgow-based community organiser told journalists: "These claims are not just inaccurate - they're harmful. They create suspicion where none should exist and damage community relations that have taken decades to build."
Political Fallout Intensifies
The row represents the first major test for Reform UK's expanding presence in Scottish local government. Political analysts suggest the party's controversial statements could either galvanise their support base or alienate moderate voters concerned about social cohesion.
Opposition parties at Holyrood have largely rallied behind the First Minister's condemnation, though some have questioned whether the Scottish Government should take a more proactive approach in countering misinformation.
As the debate continues, police representatives have confirmed they've received no reports or evidence supporting the existence of any areas operating outside Scottish law. Legal experts have also dismissed the claims, noting that Britain's legal system doesn't permit parallel judicial systems.
