Luton Borough Council

11/07/2023 - Luton's new Mayor and Deputy appointed

Mayor and deputy mayor in civic clothing

Luton’s new Mayor and Deputy Mayor were officially appointed in a ceremony held in the council chamber, last night, Monday 10 July.

Councillor Mohammed Yaqub Hanif, who serves Central Ward, was elected in May 2023, having previously been a councillor for Round Green Ward. He was formally sworn in to the post following the initial announcement in May.

Yaqub is a proud Lutonian, born and bred in the town. He studied at Challney Boys High School and Luton Sixth Form College, before going onto university.

He has pursued a career in teaching and is currently the Head of the Business Studies Department at Cardinal Newman Catholic High School.

A keen sportsman, Yaqub has played league hockey for over 26 years and currently plays in goal for Vauxhall Hockey Club.

Another of his passions is travel. Yaqub has visited every continent across the world, meeting some fascinating people along the way – an interest which serves him well and allows him to appreciate the rich diversity of cultures in the town.

He has served on the Airport Board and will continue in this role throughout his term of office. During his time as Mayor of Luton he aims to champion the role it plays in delivering economic growth for our town.

Commenting on his appointment, Yaqub said: “The position of Mayor, which I have been entrusted with, is both a tremendous honour and a great privilege.

"It will allow me to serve the great people of Luton, our home and our town and I look forward to championing charitable causes and helping those that need our help the most in society.”

Councillor Zanib Raja is the new Deputy Mayor.

Like the Mayor, Zanib Raja was born in Luton and grew up in the town. She attended Maidenhall Infants and Juniors School, then Challney High School for Girls before graduating from Barnfield College.

She held a managerial role at London Luton Airport before being made redundant as a result of the financial challenges of the Covid pandemic.

Zanib’s commitment to the town is evident. She said, “I was elected by the people of Biscot Ward, to represent them as their councillor and I will treasure this.

“It is an honour and a privilege to be selected to serve the council and the county borough as the deputy mayor for the forth coming year 2023-2024. My fellow councillors have given me a great privilege and responsibility to represent my town, my community!”