Birmingham’s New Lord Mayor Struggles Through Oath of Office in English

Zaker Choudhry Takes Office

According to Главком: On May 22, 2026, Zaker Choudhry was formally sworn in as the 116th Lord Mayor of Birmingham. During the ceremony, he had difficulty reading the oath in English. Born in Azad Kashmir, Pakistan, Choudhry moved to Birmingham in 1969 at the age of 14. His election highlights the city’s shifting demographics, particularly the impact of immigration over the decades.

Choudhry will serve as Lord Mayor for the 2026-2027 term. His public service career began in 2006 when he was elected to represent the Bordesley Green and South Yardley wards. During the Covid-19 pandemic, he coordinated local community support efforts, and he also led fundraising initiatives in response to the 2005 earthquake in Pakistan.

“It is a great honor to serve Birmingham as Lord Mayor. This city welcomed me when I was a 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 organizations that make Birmingham such an extraordinary city.” - Zaker Choudhry

The new mayor is married to Zubeida Rashid. His appointment marks a significant milestone for Birmingham, illustrating the societal changes and diversity that now define the city.

What the Election Means

Zaker Choudhry’s election as Lord Mayor underscores the importance of inclusivity and diversity in modern Birmingham, reflecting its multicultural population. As an immigrant representative, Choudhry may serve as a symbol of change and new opportunities for the community, given his background in social initiatives. His work during crises demonstrates a readiness to actively serve the interests of local residents.