Muslim Council of Britain elects first female secretary general

The Muslim Council of Britain (MCB) has elected its first female secretary general.

Zara Mohammed, a masters graduate in human rights law and a training and development consultant, was elected to Britain’s largest umbrella body of mosques, Islamic schools and Muslim associations.

She won the majority of affiliate votes against Ajmal Masroor, an Imam, teacher and broadcaster who was also running for the post.

After being elected, she said: “My vision is to continue to build a truly inclusive, diverse and representative body; one which is driven by the needs of British Muslims for the common good.

“Being elected as the first female secretary general is quite an honour and I hope it will inspire more women and young people to come forward to take on leadership roles. They are the future of this organisation and our society.”

London mayor Sadiq Khan congratulated Ms Mohammed and said it was “terrific” to see her elected.

She had previously served as assistant secretary general for the MCB.

As part of her manifesto, she said she pledged to help develop practical solutions to the Covid-19 pandemic.

She succeeded Harun Khan, who completed the maximum of four years as the head of the organisation.

Mr Khan said: “I wish the very best of success to Zara Mohammed — may she continue to lead this organisation to greater heights for the betterment of our communities across the country.”