Birmingham Councillor's Final Wish Was to Return to Pregnant Wife Before Tragic Death
The devastated family of Birmingham politician Waseem Zaffar have revealed the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding his sudden death, including that he was about to become a father for the fourth time. His final words were a desperate plea to cardiac doctors to ensure he could return home to be with his wife Ayesha, who is due to give birth imminently. Tragically, the 44-year-old did not survive to see his loved ones again.
Sudden Illness During Family Visit to Kashmir
Waseem Zaffar, a city councillor for Lozells and prominent local community figure and Labour activist, became unwell while visiting his family's ancestral village of Thub Jaghir in Kashmir. He was there to attend the funeral of his beloved uncle, Raja Kamal Khan, with many relatives present. The following day, he was taken to hospital in Islamabad where doctors advised his condition was critical.
He passed away on Friday with his sister and other family members at his bedside. His last wish had been to urge medical staff to stabilise him sufficiently so he could fly back to Birmingham to be at his wife's side and welcome their new baby, who is set to join their family of three young sons any day.
Community Mourns a 'True Brummie'
In keeping with Muslim tradition, Waseem was laid to rest the following day with hundreds turning out for his funeral in Thub Jaghir. His oldest son, Mikaeel, aged just 10, has since flown to Kashmir with relatives, accompanied by the city's Lord Mayor, Zafar Iqbal, to pay their respects. A poignant video shows young Mikaeel laying a floral arrangement bearing the word "Daddy."
A special service took place at Lozells Central Mosque to mark his passing, amid an outpouring of grief locally. Speaking for the family, long-time friend, political ally and relative Khummar Raja said the family was heartbroken at their loss.
Final Gathering and Emotional Farewell
Mr Raja revealed that Waseem had recently hosted a significant gathering for family and political allies to mark the launch of his campaign to become a councillor again in Lozells. "He spoke of all of the love and support he had received from his family and community. When I play that speech back, it was like he was saying goodbye," Mr Raja said. "Birmingham has lost a very special son."
At that gathering, Waseem had spoken emotionally of his journey through politics, alternating between his mother tongue and English. He told his supporters: "My biggest strength isn't politics, it's family," expressing gratitude for the constant support from his wife, mother, sisters, sons and extended family.
Political Legacy and Community Commitment
He also warned the Muslim community against turning away from Labour, cautioning that doing so would open the door to Reform, including politicians who wished them harm. Waseem declared: "Through every challenge and every choice, I always stood for humanity, no matter what."
Mr Raja explained that Waseem had become unwell soon after arriving in Kashmir but insisted on attending a service to mark his uncle's passing. After visiting a local hospital, he was transferred to Islamabad where he was advised of the need for major heart surgery. He died soon after following a further heart attack.
Desperate Attempt to Return Home
Describing how Waseem realised he was seriously ill and might not survive, Mr Raja said: "He wanted more than anything to get back to Ayesha and his sons. He asked if he could be medicated and put on a plane back to Birmingham but unfortunately his condition was too critical."
Mr Raja described Waseem as 'like a brother', having watched him blossom into an 'outstanding councillor and local community activist' over 27 years of friendship. He had joined the Labour party determined to improve life for people in Lozells specifically and Birmingham more widely.
Environmental Advocacy and Personal Motivation
Waseem had lost his own father, a taxi driver, at age 54. He believed his father's premature death may have been hastened by exposure to pollution, which triggered his lifelong mission to clean up the city. He became the public face of Birmingham's controversial Clean Air Zone and supported initiatives including low traffic neighbourhoods in Kings Heath and Lozells, traffic bans outside schools, safer cycling and pedestrian areas, and 20mph zones.
"He was a man of vision and he wanted to create a better place for his children to grow up in," Mr Raja explained. "He championed causes that others were uncomfortable about, like clean air and the environment, because he wanted things to change for the better."
Tributes from Colleagues and Friends
Paulette Hamilton, MP for Birmingham Erdington, said: "Politics is not easy. There are highs and there are deep lows. Those closest to him understood just how passionate Waseem was about improving Birmingham and the life chances of the people who live here. He cared deeply about this city and worked tirelessly for its communities."
Carl Chinn, city social historian and friend of Waseem, wrote in tribute: "He was a dedicated grass-roots activist, an advocate for young people and a champion of the many in our city who are marginalised. Waseem was a man of devotion. He was devoted to his faith, his family, his community, the folk of Lozells and all the peoples of Birmingham."
Cllr Nicky Brennan said of her friend and fellow Aston Villa season ticket holder: "I still do not really have the words, but I know this much. I am going to miss you so much. You loved your community fiercely. You believed in people, in justice, in speaking up and pushing for change. You were a real trailblazer in politics, never afraid to stand for what you believed in, and Birmingham is better because of the work you did and the values you lived by."
Mr Raja concluded: "He was extremely talented, very passionate about the causes that mattered to him, and not afraid to stand up for what he believed was right. He worked extremely hard. He devoted 18 hours a day most days, but still always made time for his wife and sons. He adored his children and was looking forward so much to meeting his new baby."
