Newham elects Forhad Hussain as Mayor to lead borough renewal
Forhad Hussain has been elected as the new Mayor of Newham, securing a mandate to lead the borough for the next four years. Representing the Labour Party, Hussain received 25,538 votes in a result that marks the first change in mayoral leadership for the East London borough in eight years. He succeeds Rokhsana Fiaz, who served two full terms in the role.
The declaration follows a period of intense activity at the Newham election count, where officials processed ballots following a confirmed voter turnout of 34.9%. Hussain’s victory places him at the head of one of London’s most diverse and rapidly changing municipalities, with immediate responsibility for a wide range of local services and strategic developments.
Mandate for leadership and election results
The election of Forhad Hussain concludes a campaign focused on local service delivery and community stability. Upon the announcement of the results, Hussain emphasized that the democratic process relies on the willingness of individuals to serve their community. He stated that his work begins immediately, with a focus on delivering results for every part of the borough.
His win represents a continuation of Labour’s control over the executive mayoralty in Newham, yet it also signals a transition to a new administrative style. Hussain described his election as the start of a new chapter, expressing a commitment to building a borough where residents feel a sense of pride. The 25,538 votes cast in his favor provide a clear baseline for his administration as he prepares to take office.
Background in local governance and cabinet service
Hussain is not a newcomer to the political landscape of Newham. He previously served as a Labour councillor for the Plaistow North ward between 2010 and 2018. His tenure as a councillor included significant responsibilities within the local authority’s executive structure, which may provide an indication of his governing priorities.
During his previous eight years in the council, Hussain held the position of Cabinet Member for Commercial Opportunities. He later transitioned to the role of Cabinet Member for Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour. This specific experience in public safety and municipal finance is expected to inform his approach to the borough’s current challenges, particularly regarding urban safety and the management of council resources in a constrained economic environment.
Transition from the previous administration
The handover of power officially begins this week. Rokhsana Fiaz, the outgoing Mayor, leaves the post after nearly a decade of leadership. The transition between two members of the same party allows for a degree of policy continuity, though Hussain has signaled his intent to bring fresh energy to the office.
Unlike many other London boroughs that operate under a leader-and-cabinet model, Newham utilizes the directly elected mayor system. This grants Hussain significant executive powers, including the ability to set the council’s budget and determine the strategic direction of local policy. His background as the “borough that made him” was a central theme of his acceptance, highlighting a personal connection to the area he now leads.
Immediate administrative steps and cabinet selection
Hussain is scheduled to formally take up his new role on Tuesday. His first major task involves the formation of an executive cabinet. This group of councillors will work alongside the Mayor to lead on major decisions affecting housing, education, social care, and local infrastructure.
The selection of the cabinet is a critical moment for the new administration, as it will define the political balance and expertise driving the council’s agenda for the 2026-2030 term. Hussain has indicated that his team will hit the ground running next week, with an initial focus on establishing the operational framework necessary to deliver on his campaign promises across all Newham neighborhoods.
Source: Newham Council
