Councillor Habib Rahman has announced that he will not be seeking re-election in the forthcoming local elections, bringing to a close 16 years of service representing Elswick Ward on Newcastle City Council. First elected in 2010, Rahman said the decision follows careful reflection and a belief that it is time to create space for new leadership and renewed energy in local government.
“Serving the community I have lived in all my life has been one of the greatest honours of my life,” Rahman said. “This has not been an easy decision, but I believe renewal is essential in politics. There comes a time when stepping aside allows new voices and new ideas to emerge.”
Challenging discrimination
Rahman grew up on a council estate in one of the most deprived areas of Newcastle, an experience he says shaped his politics long before he entered public office. Challenging discrimination, fighting for basic services, and demanding equal opportunities were, he says, everyday realities for many working-class families.
By his late teens, he had resolved to enter politics, believing that meaningful change required engagement from within democratic institutions. At 37, he was among the youngest councillors in the chamber when elected and quickly became an advocate for greater inclusion in local government.
“When I was first elected, the Council did not reflect the full diversity of the city it serves,” he said. “I have always believed democracy works best when institutions look like the people they represent.”
During his time on the Council, Rahman became the first person of colour to serve in Cabinet. He later made history as the youngest Lord Mayor in the city’s history and the first person of colour to hold the office in Newcastle’s 800-year mayoral tradition.
While acknowledging the historic significance of those milestones, Rahman says his proudest achievements lie in representing constituents and supporting families facing hardship.
About people
“Public service is about people,” he said. “Over the past 16 years, I have supported families in crisis, challenged policy decisions, and worked to improve housing, services, and living conditions in Elswick and across Newcastle. That work often unseen is what matters most.”
A legacy project particularly associated with Rahman is the establishment of the Peace Garden, a dedicated space for remembrance and reflection in the city. The initiative honours victims of violence, genocide, and war and reflects Newcastle’s commitment to solidarity and compassion.
Rahman worked closely with community groups to support memorials recognising the genocide against the Tutsi people in Rwanda and the Holocaust against Roma communities, helping to ensure that the histories and experiences of different communities are formally acknowledged within the city.
“The Peace Garden is about shared humanity,” he said. “It provides a place where communities can come together in remembrance and reaffirm our collective commitment to dignity and justice.”
Rahman’s political outlook has also been profoundly shaped by personal tragedy. His father was killed in a racist attack, an event he has previously described as life-changing and central to his determination to challenge racism and systemic inequality.
“Challenging racism has never been abstract for me,” he said. “It has always been personal. That experience reinforced my belief that public institutions must confront injustice directly and consistently.”
Throughout his tenure, Rahman has been vocal on issues affecting working-class communities, young people, and minority ethnic groups. He has advocated for greater representation within political structures and encouraged younger generations to engage in civic life.
Active in public life and community organising
Originally elected as a Labour councillor, Rahman left the Labour Party in January 2024 and has since continued his political work as an Independent. Although stepping down from the Council, he confirmed he will remain active in public life and community organising.
“Leaving elected office does not mean leaving public service,” he said. “I will continue campaigning on the issues that matter most, tackling health inequalities, raising awareness around cancers affecting men and minority communities, supporting young people’s mental health, addressing drug and alcohol challenges, and strengthening community cohesion.”
Rahman also confirmed his intention to stand again as an Independent candidate at the next general election in 2029.
“My commitment to Newcastle remains strong,” he said. “I believe communities benefit from independent voices prepared to speak up and challenge where necessary. I intend to continue building support and preparing for the next national contest.”
He paid tribute to fellow councillors and council officers across party lines who, he said, dedicate significant time and energy to serving residents.
“Local government is demanding work,” he said. “I have had the privilege of working alongside many committed individuals who care deeply about this city.”
Reflecting on his 16 years in office, Rahman said one of his greatest sources of pride has been inspiring others particularly young people from working-class and minority backgrounds to become more engaged in politics and community activism.
“Representation matters,” he said. “If my journey has encouraged others to believe that politics is open to them, then that is something I will always value.”
As he prepares to leave office, Rahman said he is looking forward to spending more time with his family while continuing to serve the community in other ways.
“Public office is one way to make a difference, but it is not the only way, This is not the end of my political journey, it is simply a new chapter.”
