Rahima Rahman Honoured After Historic Win

A civic reception has been held in honour of Councillor Rahima Rahman following her historic fifth election victory in Newham and her appointment as the borough's first British Bangladeshi Chair and First Citizen.

The reception took place at 1 Grangewood Street in her ward on Wednesday afternoon, where community leaders, former councillors, journalists and local residents gathered to celebrate the milestone.

The programme opened with a recitation from the Holy Qur'an. The event was jointly hosted by journalists Azizul Ambya and Shamima Mita. During the opening remarks, Azizul Ambia reflected on Councillor Rahman's long political journey, her commitment to public service and her significant contribution to the local community.

Among those addressing the audience were former Tower Hamlets Speaker Ahbab Hossain, former councillor Osman Hadi, Mujibur Rahman Jasim, journalists Matiar Chowdhury, Helal Hossain, Munzer Ahmed Chowdhury, Lutfur Rahman Chhayed, Hadi Khan, Abdul Bachit, Abdul Mukit and Shah Shahid Ali. Speakers praised Councillor Rahman's integrity, leadership and unwavering dedication to serving the public, while wishing her every success in her new civic role.

Representatives from a number of social, cultural and regional organisations also extended their congratulations with floral tributes. A delegation from the Noakhali Association, led by M D Sohag, and representatives of the Shariatpur Association, including Hadi Khan, were among those who formally congratulated Councillor Rahman.

The second half of the event featured a cultural programme, with musical performances by Tahsin and Famia, whose performances were warmly received by guests. Councillor Rahman also hosted refreshments for those in attendance throughout the afternoon.

Speakers described Councillor Rahman's achievement as a landmark not only for the London Borough of Newham but also for the wider British Bangladeshi community. They said her appointment as the borough's first British Bangladeshi Chair and First Citizen represents an important milestone that will inspire future generations to take a more active role in public service, community leadership and mainstream British politics.

EN/SA