The city of Birmingham is in mourning today following the sudden and tragic death of Councillor Waseem Zaffar MBE, a dedicated public servant and passionate clean air advocate, at the age of 44. Tributes from across the political spectrum and community have flooded in, honouring a man described as a towering figure in local politics and a devoted family man.
A Life Dedicated to Service and Family
Councillor Zaffar served the community of Lozells for 15 years, earning widespread respect for his unwavering commitment. A proud Brummie and lifelong Aston Villa season ticket holder, he was a devoted husband to his wife Ayesha and a father to three young boys. His colleagues remember a man determined to stand up for his community and city with sincerity and courage.
Political Tributes Across the Spectrum
Labour MPs, union activists, and local colleagues were quick to pay heartfelt tribute. Birmingham City Council’s Labour Leader, Councillor John Cotton, expressed profound sorrow, stating: “Tonight, we remember a life lost too soon, and a family that has suffered the most terrible and shocking of losses. Waseem Zaffar was a passionate advocate of his community, a father, a husband, a young man with so much more to give to the city he was so proud to call home.”
Labour MP Preet Gill shared her deep shock, saying: “He cared deeply about his community, working hard to serve others. My heart goes out to his family, especially his young boys, at this devastating time.”
Remarkably, political opponents also spoke warmly of his character and dedication. Birmingham Conservatives Group Leader, Councillor Bobby Alden, noted: “While we had very different views on many things, Waseem clearly cared deeply for his local community. He was always kind and polite in our dealings.” Liberal Democrats Group Leader Roger Harmer added: “Waseem was a talented and leading member of the Labour Group who cared deeply about his community and the environment.”
A Legacy of Environmental and Community Advocacy
Waseem Zaffar was a formidable campaigner for clean air and environmental justice. His work significantly impacted public health initiatives in Birmingham. Clean air campaigner Mohammed R highlighted his vital role, stating: “He served the community with sincerity and courage, playing a vital role in the Birmingham Healthy Air Coalition and leading from the front as a Clean Air Zone community leader. His work on air quality, public health, and environmental justice improved lives, protected children, and gave a voice to those who are too often unheard.”
His advocacy extended to projects including Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs), 20mph zones, and safer school streets, driven by a determination to tackle pollution blighting inner-city lives. He also served as a non-executive director at the West Birmingham and Sandwell Hospitals NHS Trust and was a passionate advocate for his Kashmiri heritage.
A Future Leader Lost
Tipped as a future leader of Birmingham City Council, having narrowly missed out on the top role in 2022, Councillor Zaffar also harboured ambitions to become an MP. He was awarded an MBE in 2012 for his services to the community, a testament to his decades of dedication.
Community activist Jehangir Malik captured the collective sentiment: “The City has lost a true public servant. He was loved by many in Birmingham, West Midlands, UK and abroad - A truly remarkable inspirational young man who worked his heart out for causes in Birmingham and beyond.”
As Birmingham comes to terms with this devastating loss, the thoughts and prayers of the city are with his young family. His legacy, as noted by many, will endure through cleaner air, stronger communities, and the countless people he inspired to stand up and act for a better future.
