Samarah Zaffar has announced she will stand as Labour's candidate for the Lozells ward in the upcoming Birmingham council elections, aiming to continue the work of her late brother, Councillor Waseem Zaffar.
Waseem Zaffar, a devoted Labour councillor and clean air campaigner, died earlier this year at the age of 44. He was remembered as a passionate advocate for his Lozells community and a lifelong Aston Villa season ticket holder.
"After the sudden passing of my brother, I want to continue his legacy and the brilliant work that he's done for this ward," Samarah said. She begins her campaign "with a heavy heart but also with unwavering hope and determination."
Her priorities include protecting youth centres, ensuring dignity for elders, and investing in Lozells. She also aims to tackle fly-tipping and drug use issues that blight the inner-city area.
Birmingham Council leader John Cotton described Waseem as a "passionate advocate of his community" with "so much more to give." Labour MP Preet Kaur Gill said he "cared deeply about his community, working hard to serve others."
The May 7 elections will see all 101 council seats contested, determining which party controls Birmingham Council.
