I am a Pakistani-born ex-Muslim. I became an atheist in my early teens due to the irreconcilable differences between Islam and real world. Until recently I was quite content to keep my views to myself, however, with the recent rise in religious fundamentalism I felt it was time to speak up and make a stand for the freedom of speech and for the freedom of thought. The formation of the Ex-Muslim Council of Britain is very timely and much needed and I fully support the manifesto.