The Charity Commission has released a report highlighting significant failures in governance and management at the Brighton Mosque and Muslim Community Centre (locally known as Dyke Road Mosque) after a statutory inquiry revealed serious issues, including links to extremism.
Background and Concerns
The investigation began after a former trustee was convicted in 2020 of encouraging terrorism during a speech made at the mosque. The Charity Commission issued an Official Warning to the trustees, stating they failed to safeguard the charity and its beneficiaries, and ordered immediate actions to prevent similar abuse.
Subsequent inquiries revealed a serious governance dispute between the trustees and a group claiming control over the charity. The dispute, coupled with financial mismanagement, hindered the charity’s ability to implement safeguards and led to the regulator’s intervention.
Key Findings
- Governance Failures: Trustees failed to resolve internal disputes, weakening the charity’s management and reputation.
- Financial Mismanagement: Concerns arose over procedures not being followed in handling over £17,000 in cash donations.
- Trustee Disqualification: The inquiry found Dr. Karim Aboutayab, a former trustee, particularly culpable for governance failures. He has been disqualified from serving as a trustee.
- Charity Exploitation: The inquiry emphasized the risk of the charity being exploited by individuals with extremist intentions due to governance lapses.
Regulator’s Actions
To restore the charity’s functionality and credibility, the Charity Commission:
- Appointed an Interim Manager to oversee the charity’s bank accounts and operations.
- Conducted an open recruitment process for new trustees.
- Formally appointed new trustees, ensuring the charity has a stable governance structure.
Statement from the Charity Commission
Joshua Farbridge, Head of Compliance Visits and Inspections, said:
“Abusing a charity to encourage terrorism is a grave breach of public trust. Trustees have a duty to ensure their charities are not exploited by those with malign intentions. Brighton Mosque’s case highlights how serious disputes can destabilize charities, leaving them vulnerable. We acted robustly to safeguard the charity’s assets and establish effective governance.”
Current Status
With new trustees in place, the charity is reported to be back on track. The Charity Commission underscored the importance of strong governance to protect public trust and prevent future exploitation.
This case serves as a stark reminder for trustees across the UK to ensure proper governance and oversight within their organisations.
