UK's Birmingham appoints first Muslim lord mayor VIDEO

Birmingham, the United Kingdom’s second-most populous city after London, has appointed Councillor Zaker Choudhry as its new Lord Mayor, marking a historic milestone for the city’s civic leadership.

In a statement, Birmingham City Council confirmed his installation as Lord Mayor of Birmingham, noting that he becomes the city’s First Citizen, Caliber.Az reports.

Born in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, and raised in a rural community, Choudhry moved to Birmingham in 1969 at the age of 14. He later built a career in manufacturing and business before entering local politics.

The council highlighted his family background, professional experience, and long-standing involvement in community service and charitable work across the city, including roles in local governance, policing oversight, health scrutiny, and transport planning bodies.

Choudhry has served as a Birmingham councillor since 2006, representing Bordesley Green and South Yardley, and has been active in supporting food banks and community initiatives, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He will be supported during his mayoral year by his Lady Mayoress, Zubeda Rashid, who was born and raised in Birmingham.

"Educated locally, the Lady Mayoress is widely admired for her resilience, compassion and dedication to family and community. She has consistently demonstrated courage and inner strength, qualities that have shaped her supportive role throughout her husband’s public service journey. Together, they share a strong commitment to hospitality, inclusion and service," the statement reads. 

As Lord Mayor, he will serve as the ceremonial head of Birmingham City Council and act as an ambassador for the city, promoting civic engagement and community cohesion.

“It is a profound honour to serve Birmingham as Lord Mayor. This city welcomed me as a young teenager and gave me the opportunity to build a life rooted in service, hard work and community. I look forward to representing all our residents and celebrating the people and organisations who make Birmingham such a remarkable city," Choudhry said on his appointment.

By Sabina Mammadli