New Haringey mayor is first of Bangladeshi heritage

Ahmed Mahbub received the chains of office at Haringey Council’s annual meeting last month

New Haringey mayor Ahmed Mahbub (credit Haringey Council)

The borough’s first-ever mayor of Bangladeshi heritage has received the chains of office.

Having served as his predecessor Sue Jameson’s deputy over the course of the last twelve months, Ahmed Mahbub has now taken on the full civic role for 2025/26 having been elected during last month’s full council meeting at Tottenham Town Hall.

The White Hart Lane ward councillor will be supported by Seven Sisters ward councillor Michelle Simmons-Safo, who will serve as his deputy for the 2025/2026 municipal year.

In his inaugural speech as mayor, Cllr Mahbub said: “It’s an honour of a lifetime to be announced as mayor.

“Haringey is the only home I’ve ever known. From attending Noel Park Primary School and Woodside High to playing baseball in Finsbury Park and learning Jiu Jitsu in Muswell Hill, this borough has given me opportunities and I’m delighted to give back to my community as Haringey’s first citizen.

“I’m excited to work with our many community groups – from our resident associations to our friends of parks to our religious institutions.

“You are the beating heart of Haringey and I cannot wait to support you as mayor.”

Cllr Mahbub thanked his colleagues for “putting their trust in me” and his family and friends “who will see me considerably less this year.”

He also emphasised the diversity of the borough, hailing Haringey as a place that “stands stall in being a global village, with members from all corners of the world.”

Cllr Mahbub said: “Our diverse community weaves a rich tapestry which enriches our borough. Families who have lived here for generations stand shoulder to shoulder with those who have only recently made Haringey their home, sharing traditions, cuisine, music and stories that bridge continents and centuries.

“This beautiful mosaic of backgrounds doesn’t just make Haringey unique – it makes us resilient, innovative and deeply compassionate.

“As we face the challenges of our time together, it is this diversity that provides us with countless perspectives and solutions, ensuring that no voice goes unheard and no community feels forgotten.”

He added: “Let me be clear, as the first citizen of Haringey, I say: ‘Haringey is open to all.’

“As mayor, I hope to stand firm with all communities and give broad support to your celebrations and activities, using this year to engage with more communities and broaden the reach of the mayoralty.”

The Haringey branch of the Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) will be Cllr Mahbub’s chosen charity for the year.

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