Every two years the MCB appoints its office-bearers for a two year term: a Secretary General (SG), a Deputy Secretary General (DSG), a Treasurer, three Assistant Secretary Generals (ASGs) and a Deputy Treasurer. For the first time on Sunday 15 June 2014, the SG and DSG will be directly elected by the affiliates’ delegates present. After this, the delegates will elect 40 members of a National Council, also supplemented by representatives from each of the MCB’s National and Regional affiliates. The National Council then selects the additional office bearers after a process of consultation and evaluation. There is a quota system to ensure that at least eight women are amongst the elected National Council members. The elected members also include 12 geographical zonal representatives, to ensure every part of Britain has a say in the organisation’s decision-making.
On 3 March 2014 the Election Commissioner of the MCB, Judge Khurshid Drabu CBE, issued a call inviting individuals to come forward as candidates for the post of Secretary General and Deputy Secretary General.
The MCB’s Constitution defines the Secretary General’s role as its “official spokesperson”, with responsibilities including convening the General Assembly, directing the work of the National Council in implementing the policies set by the General Assembly, presenting a report of activities to the annual meeting of the General Assembly and convening and chairing meetings of the MCB’s Executive Committee. The DSG’s role is to deputise for the Secretary General in his or her absence and providing assistance to the Secretary General in the performance of his or her duties.
Individuals interested should respond by 25 April to the Call for Candidates issued by Judge Khurshid Drabu CBE on 3 March 2014, in the first instance emailing him at this address
Each prospective candidate should provide him by this date (i) evidence of British citizenship or indefinite leave of stay (ii) a ‘manifesto’ of up to 750 words outlining their experience of service in Muslim community institutions, why they consider themselves suitable for the position of SG (or DSG) and their assessment of the challenges facing Muslims in Britain. Judge Drabu notes, ” Subject to receipt of this information I will announce the candidates eligible to stand by 1st May 2014 and their manifestos will be published on the MCB website. Additionally I will require candidates to furnish me, before the AGM date, with evidence from a Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) check. Discharged bankrupts are also disqualified.”
This is a unique opportunity for individuals to come forward, provide leadership in service of the community.
See also:
Have You Got What it Takes? Previous MCB Leaders Giver Their Perspective