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LONDON DAILY ARCHIVE

Leader of group that celebrated Hamas attacks is NHS GP under different name

The leader of the UK branch of an extremist Islamic group has been exposed as working as a GP in the NHS under a different name.

30 October 2023 · 05:02 UTC

A recent investigation by the Mail on Sunday revealed Abdul Wahid, leader of the UK's Hizb ut-Tahrir (HT), an Islamic group under international scrutiny, to be an NHS General Practitioner, Dr. Wahid Asif Shaida. This group has faced criticism for its extreme views, particularly after endorsing Hamas's attack on Israel and chanting 'jihad' at a London rally.

Despite the controversy, Wahid continued practicing at Welbeck Road Surgery in Harrow. His senior role at the surgery and long-standing service since 2002 has surprised many who were unaware of his affiliation with HT.

There's growing concern about Wahid's ability to provide impartial care, given his leadership in HT. Experts like Professor Anthony Glees label him a potential threat to patient and national safety, while MP Khalid Mahmood suggests Wahid should be transparent about his HT affiliation to his patients.

In response, Wahid highlighted the separation between his professional and political roles, acknowledging his leadership in HT but rejecting its extremist tag. As the debate around HT intensifies, the UK government faces pressure regarding its stance on the group, with the General Medical Council yet to comment on the issue. This case underscores the tension between personal beliefs and professional obligations.