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LONDON: Opposition Labour lawmaker Sadiq Khan was elected mayor of London with 57 per cent of the vote, final results showed Saturday, making him the first Muslim mayor of a major Western capital.
The 45-year-old son of a London bus driver and a seamstress won 1,310,143 votes against 994,614 for his main Conservative rival Zac Goldsmith, 41, the son a wealthy tycoon.
Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn hailed Khan's win over Conservative Zac Goldsmith, after a bitter campaign in which Prime Minister David Cameron sought to link Khan to Islamic extremists.
“Congratulations Sadiq Khan. Can't wait to work with you to create a London that is fair for all!” Corbyn wrote on Twitter ahead of the publication of final results.
After a negative campaign in which Khan was accused by his rival of sympathising with Islamic extremists, the 45-year-old former human rights lawyer promised in his acceptance speech to be a “mayor for all Londoners”.
“This election was not without controversy and I am so proud that London has today chosen hope over fear and unity over division,” he said after the result was declared at City Hall, to applause and cheers from supporters.
“I hope that we will never be offered such a stark choice again. Fear doesn't make us safer, it only makes us weaker, and the politics of fear is simply not welcome in our city."
As he was speaking the candidate for the far-right Britain First party, Paul Golding, who was lined up with the other loosing candidates behind Khan, turned his back.
The local MP for Tooting, Khan succeeds the charismatic Boris Johnson, an advocate of Britain's departure from the European Union who is seen as one of the favourites to succeed Cameron.
Other mayors including Anne Hidalgo in Paris and Bill de Blasio in New York quickly congratulated Khan.
“Sending congratulations to London's new mayor and fellow affordable housing advocate Sadiq Khan,” de Blasio said.
Corbyn, who has faced opposition from centrists in his party since becoming leader last year, insisted his party had “hung on” and surpassed expectations.
“All across England last night we were getting predictions that we were going to lose councils. We didn't,” he said.
“We hung on and we grew support in a lot of places. “With results in from 110 out of 124 councils, Labour had 55, down one, and 1,176 seats, down 25.
Prime Minister David Cameron's Conservatives had control of an unchanged 30 councils and 650 seats, down 23.
A BBC projection suggested that Labour would win 31 percent of the vote share nationally compared to 30 percent for the Conservatives.
“The Labour Party is in serious trouble, although the likely election of a Labour candidate to be London mayor will distract from that,” said Matthew Goodwin, politics professor at Kent University.
The voting day dubbed “Super Thursday” in which 45 million Britons were eligible to vote came after a bitter few weeks of sniping between the Conservatives and Labour.
Corbyn set up an inquiry into anti-Semitism and racism in Labour after former London mayor Ken Livingstone was suspended for claiming Nazi dictator Adolf Hitler supported Zionism.
Several other Labour politicians were also suspended.
Cameron is also grappling with deep splits in his party ahead of the June 23 referendum on Britain's membership of the European Union.
Comments (269)
So proud of him. The first Asian to achieve this feat in Europe. He has made all Pakistanis proud. His success will motivate everyone to work hard with dedication.
Amazing. I have a lot more respect for people of London now.
Good news for Pakistanis
Congrats Sadiq Khan .Londoners have great expectations from you.
A watershed moment for Europe, Muslims and Pakistan.
Congratulations Sadiq Khan!
I am British and proud that still Britain is a land of opportunity. Pakistan please learn. We expats compete with the best the west has to offer and we win. Pakistan look to your expats to fix your house. Expats love Pakistan more than desi''s do
Next target: 10 Downing Street.
Then, The White House. There is no reason by 2050, there shouldn't be a Muslim President of the United States.
Good news.
Great job. Now Pakistanis will feel at home in London.
Before going bserk celbrating.....a question for every pakistani to ask to themself have u ever chose any non muslim as mayor or at any other post....or u ever be able to do that
congrats
so what is this hype that he is a Muslim & son of a Pakistani ? He is British only . Okay
Kool. Congratts!
The race is on. Muslims should be actively participating in political process in their host countries in the west and strive to improve the image of Islam through public service, dedication and loyalty to the countries who have provided them refuge and opportunities.
Berlin, Paris, Madrid and Rome, next??
he wins or not.......... Pakistanis should learn and come out of voting on 'bradri basis' and chose the right candidate....
That Goes To prove the general public and majority never has the animosity in their hearts as portrayed by the media. Hatred is always, anywhere in the world, caused by government policies, as opposed to a common man..
Thanks London For Your Openness & Acceptance..
So non Muslim countries are accommodative to Muslims. Unfortunately other way is not true
now this is real democracy. Congratulations Sir.
Sadiq is a born and raised British citizen with strong Muslim faith. He is as qualified as any British. Nothin more nothing less. Best wishes in carrying out his duties as Mayor of London when he gets elected.
Every Pakistani should learn that London voted for Sadiq for his values and his parties values.
Not based on religion or community.
Once we vote like that we are more likely to get the leaders we want not deserve.
Congrats.
Credit goes to the people of England for being progressive minded and tolerant toward the immigrants! Muslim or Pakistan has nothing to do with the Mayor's success. We Pakistanis should learn from countries like England!
Fairy snow is down, beginning of so many others to follow. Keep ur chin high if u wnat to survive.
Pakistanis excel to the top when provided the opportunities. From one of America's richest self-made men (Shahid Khan) to the mayor of London (Sadiq Khan). Just the right environment and opportunity is all they need. Some lessons for the government of Pakistan.
This news is a big boost for the 1.2 million British Pakistani community. Especially those living in the mill towns (Kashmiris) who are slowly rising and improving their economics. Positive news overall.
Now Imran Khan looking for a container in London for Dharna since Zac lost the election
Shows tolerance of British people and also demographic significance of Asians in London.
Congratulations...Sadiq Khan. Here Imran Khan was wrong in supporting Zac Goldsmith. London needs diversity.
Take care guys there is so much to love. Wish I could post this sentiment s again n again.
Poised for historic win… Advance congratulations to Sadiq Khan…! A proud son of Pakistani parents… Unfortunately, did not get any political support from local PTI supporters because Imran Khan backed Gold Smith against Sadiq Khan…
Is there any thing Pakistan can learn out of this?
From music (Zayn Malik) to sports (Moeen Ali, Amir Khan) and politics (Sadiq Khan, Javid Malik), good to see British Pakistanis representing the country at all levels.
Goldsmith lost because of his name....in a true democracy where the peoples vote is a true representation of their wishes..... it really does not help if your name is Goldsmith or Rockefeller or Vanderbilt....times are a changing and that's good.
Shows the greatness of democracy
Congrats to Sadiq Khan. He has been declared Mayor of London. Amazing moment for British-Pakistanis.
Victory for a fair man, congratulations to British people for show of generosity and fairness.
Fanatics had almost started a fight between cultures. Thanks to Mr. Sadiq Khan for his wisdom. Good luck Mayor Khan.
Once again a talented Pakistani proved that if opportunities are available then this Pakistani nation can do wonders in this world.
Great - This is called Democracy.
Do we have any son of Driver, as our even Councilor?? We can never dream like this.
A great victory for oversees Pakistanis and people of Pakistani origin !
Congratulations. Sadiq Khan You will do well.
Congratulations on his success. I am really feeling happy and proud.
England is indeed a great country
Congrats!!!!!! This will be a slap on those who portrait negative image of Muslims just to win some votes.
Great news for Pakistan and Muslims across the world. I hope he introduces Islam teachings in London.
Can a British origin dream such things in Pakistan ????
Umm... Congratulations!
A bus driver's son rising to this political level would never happen in Pakistan, he would not have enough money to buy the votes.
Congratulations from India. London will get safer as the selfbelief will increase to stay within the fold.
British proved today that when it comes to south asia they divided and conquered while dealing with their own house they United and conquered. Powerful people on both sides of the border take notice
Congratulation to @ Sadiq Khan, its a great honor for Pakistan and for the whole Muslim world too.
I am Indian, and also Hindu by birth. I am overjoyed that Mr Khan has won. This is excellent news for the people of London, and those of the UK and Europe, more generally. More than that, I hope that it helps build a more positive perception of Pakistan.
And we incessantly complain about Islamophobia. When will we ever have a Hindu/Parsi/Sikh mayor of Karachi (leave alone a CM or a PM)?
Congratulations Sadiq Khan :-)
Your are being elected by mandate of all
congratulation and good luck..Sadiq Khan
Congratulations Mr Sadiq Khan. We know you will do well for London and make all proud.
Congratulations. You make us proud.
Congratulations Sadiq sahib, we are proud of you. Inshallah you will be confirmed. We expect you to be fair to all Londoners regardless of their ethnicity or faith and continue to vehemently oppose radical and violent extremists especially those from within our ranks.
very very congralutations Mr. sadiq khan feeling proud that pakistani community member became the first muslim mayor of london
Got elected despite different religion. This is called real democracy. Good news something to cheer up.
Multiculturism at its best.
He's British, why do you care so much? Deal with problems in your country! Time to grow up.
USA elected black President twice, USA gearing for a woman President, London electing a Muslim of Pakistani descend are clear indications of the fact that western nations offer equal opportunities to their residents regardless of their religion, race or sex. Hope one day Pakistan follows the same Merit Path as seen in London.
@Roussou how is he making all Pakistani's proud? only link he has is that his Parents are from Pakistan.
@Anwar@ Bajaur , FATA Remember he was not elected for being a Muslim.
Wow. Well done Mr. Khan. This is true democracy in action.
Real democracy in London. In Pakistan only wealth makes you member national assembly.
@Anuj what is wrong with you you are always here to criticize Pakistan and Muslims. We may have many problems in Pakistan, but majority of us love our non-Muslim Pakistanis just like Muslim Pakistanis. Unlike India our government do not put restrictions on Hindus..I have list of some of the higt profile non-muslims ....
Alvin R. Cornelius - Supreme court justice Doral Patel - High court justice Rana Baghwan (Acting Chief Justice, I think he refuse the job later) Air Commodore Balwant Kumar Das Maj. Gen. Julian Peter Air Vice Marshal Eric Gordan Hall Air Vice Marshal Michael John O’Brien Maj. Gen. Noel Israel Khokher The list goes on an on...
Pakistanis are hardworking and achievers. I have met many abroad and there work ethics and mindset is very different to ours.
Sadiq Khan has Pakistani background but he is a British citizen who is loyal to his country and will do his best to make London more better. Rest assure his election as a mayor does not mean that Pakistanis will have visa-free entry to UK. So please chill out.
Congratulation to Sadiq Khan; it a shame for Pakistani's that in their own Pakistan son of a bus driver and seamstress can never hope to be president. It is time to do some soul searching.
Congrats to Sadiq Khan. Proud of him. This is a loud reply to Trump that negative campaign may get you up to a certain level but it won't get you to victory stand. Proud of Londoners for electing the first Muslim mayor.
Election of Sadiq Khan being a mayor to London shows westerners still believe in merit and they do not discriminate based on creed. In such a vulnerable situation for muslims his selection is a great relief to muslims living in the West.
@Skeptic No, you should try to elect a common person in your own country; Sadiq Khan is a British first.
@Anuj I think you are Indian. You are writing like this Indian Muslims have so many important posts in India. I know only Muslim President could made in India to show that Muslims are in power but everybody knows India's President Power. No states even can not think that they could have Muslim CM. And I personally know those Muslims who are holding Important post, just they are passing their time to retire in the good name.
This goes to show there are a lot more fair minded Londoners than bigots and hate mongers.
@k k tiwari "so what is this hype that he is a Muslim & son of a Pakistani ? He is British only . Okay"
If he had committed some crime his religion and ethnicity would have been more important but since he got elected mayor, now he is only British. Great logic.
Given half a chance Pakistanis can achieve great things and this can be seen abroad were Pakistanis from poor backgrounds have done well
Isn't it amazing that a person who is ethinicly non-white and non-European;who belongs to a faith that has been historically and traditionaly a rival of Judeo-Christians; is able to become mayor of a major European city. He was given this right just because he was born there. I truely appreciate and salute the open-mindness and liberal values of Briton in particular and the Western world in general. I can only wish if countries with Muslim majorities become even 10% as liberal.
@Serious Senior stay on topic, a pakistani origin Britisher has won the most important position in a world capital.
@Anuj a former Chief Justice of Pakistan was a hindu
Love the hair. Make us Pakistanis proud!
@M. Malik
He is NOT pakistani - he is gone on record to state that he does NOT relate with pakistan
How is he going to help pakistan....? it baffles me....he is not going to do anything for pakistan....lets see.....
@Anuj, Yes Pakistanis have voted for non-muslim candidates and they have won in Pakistan. Other then non-muslim seats, the non-muslims (who comprise only 4%) of the population, the cities in the district of 'tharparker' have elected, Rana Chandar Singh, the supreme court had Rana Bhagwandas, and many more..so pls know the facts first.
@Anuj yes, do a little research and you will find many non-muslims holding prestigious positions in the government. But I must admit that was in the past and it is becoming increasingly difficult with the current religious (ignorance) environment.
Congratulations on this remarkable achievement. Proves that he was able to pull the South Asian Community together.
Congrats! Hope & wish London will be a lot better place!
@A shah excuse me, he's the mayor for all Londoners. Don't mix duty with religion as that will only bring bigotry and prejudice.
@Masood Bhai there are many poor people in pakistan whose kids went to be politically elected, move to england then,
Sadiq Khan's father was a Pakistani but Sadiq himself was born, raised, and educated in UK. I wonder what Pakistan has to do with Sadiq and how he makes us proud? We should reserve our pride for the day when a non-muslim having a non-Pakistani ancestry would become Khadim-e-Aala.
@Anuj: A. R. (Bobby) Corenlius. Rana Bhagvandas (albeit as acting Chief Justice of the SC). Rajan
@Krish people keep on mentioning that he is from pakistan his parents are from India
@Alla Bux we had in pakistan a chief justice who was hindu, we have numerous high holding position in pakistan that are non muslims, but the overall population is very small of non muslims,
@k k tiwari Describe Name , Father's name and Origin are normal in human being
Weldone London. London Zindabad. Pakistan Paindabad
Some bitter facts should be kept in mind before getting too emotional. George Galloway is pro Palestine and he is vocal about the activities of self exiled Pakistani politicians' residing in UK, and Sadiq Khan is not regarding both issues.
@Skeptic , Next is China.
@Mahmood He is UK born liberal human right advocate. If person is deserving he/she can be President/prime minister, mayor of USA, eng, pak irrespective of Being Christian, Islam, Hindu, Sikh, Jew's, monk etc.
@Roussou - Agreed.
@Anuj We had a chief justice. Mr Ramday!
@Masood Bhai MQM has repeatedly sent such candidates to assemblies.
It is the education Pakistanis get at home in their parent contry which lies in the foundation leading to some successes. There are ewuivalent shining persons in Pakistan also who are the pride of the country. Sadique's appointment as the Mayor of London is a matter of great happiness the mayor of Karachi or Delhi and Lahore has equal importance. The only difference is that when now Sadique visits Pakistan the media will treat him like a bridegroom. On the otherside a mayor of any Pakistani city will be put under magnifying glass and will only be criticised. A Pakistani mayor in Pakistan works inder ver difficult circumstances
well done home boy
@Anuj our chief justice of supreme court was a hindu now zip it up
Lovely, we are so proud. Can it happen in Pakistan or Saudi Arabia that we allow people from other relegion to come forward, no it will never happen. What is stopping us
While we celebrate in Pakistan and there are headlines in newspapers that a Muslim is going to be mayor of London, can anybody think that a Non Muslim can be mayor of Lahore or Karachi in Pakistan? If not then why not we think about this fault line which exists within us.
@k k tiwari Dude whats ur problem ?!
What a proud moment for the Indian subcontinent and especially for Pakistan! A true moment of glory!
Congratulations Mr. Khan and Congratulations to Londoners for being so open. A prevailing democratic thinking in a society is the basis for democracy. We are very far from this: even our PM has difficulties distiguishing between protesters and terorists!
Congratulations Mr. Khan for wining the mayoral election. Keep up the hard work and be a great role model for young Pakistani Britishers.
Can Istanbul, Islamabad, Dubai, Riyadh etc etc etc get a non-muslim mayor ever? Can Pakistani cricket ever get a non-muslim captain? Yousuf youhana had to convert and become a Muslim hoping that he will one day become Pakistani cricket team captain. Still, he could not become.
Liberal and Big hearted Europeans ......
The true winners are English citizens for selecting a minority Mayor. Congratts to the whole UK and nothing but respect for your system and values. Keep it up!
Congratulations!
As an aside, when someone from desh (India, Pakistan, or any other country) does something wrong, we rush to disclaim any connection between that person and the country of origin. Witness what the reaction was for the San Bernardino shooters. However, when someone does well, we are happy to embrace that person, even if the connection is remote.
Congratulations to Sadiq Khan.
Yes.. What a moment... Congratulations to Mr.Sadiq.. Appreciations for secularist Londeners who did not check the person's faith for electing the leader, even when US is intolerant to Muslims.
Thumps up for this great achievement by a Muslim Briton of Pakistan origin !
Sadiq Kahan has to work for Londoner not to Pakistan,he is responsible for welfare of Londoner,can't help to solve Paistan's problems. All Londoners will be watching his works.
Where does he hail from in Pakistan and what is his family's background?
All hail the British law and praise be upon these goras. Stop singing songs of the Arabs as i could never see this justice in their homeland.
Congratulations Mr. Khan!
Great! His number one priority is to make sure that Pakistanis can easily get visas to visit the UK.
Proud to be a descendant of South Asian Muslim.
At least one big good news where Pakistan has roots
Congrat. Proud of you Sir
This is called "True Democracy" Congratulations to Sadiq Khan.
@A shah Sadiq was elected to govern London not to introduce and teach Islam. Grow up and appreciate western countries democracy and see what Muslim majority countries can learn from it.
Congrets Khan sb.
Amazing !! Son of a bus driver becoming a mayor and that too from a religion being targeted all over the world. This is called a real functioning democracy. Such social, economic mobility is not possible at all in India.
Kool happening in London ....................... peace for everyone in London... good luck to the Khan.
Now, when will Pakistan have a non Muslim mayor. Time to introspect.
@A shah Instead you should introduce Western teachings in your place which gives equal opportunity to every one.
Feeling very happy, I pray for his success.
Dear Sadiq, Congratulations on your success. It is a great honour for Muslims also. I hope, you will use your influence to explain to the English people that Islam is a peaceful religion, and also, that your will explain to Muslims to be more open-minded and respect the rules of the host country as far as it is possible, to keep peace at all times under all circumstances.
Congratulations to him ! I admire him for running a clean and dignified campaign despite the negativity which is a great feat itself.
@DAWN, please publish. From music (Zayn Malik) to sports (Moeen Ali, Amir Khan) and politics (Sadiq Khan, Sajid Javed), British Pakistanis excel in all different fields.
Pakistanis earn the top positions wherever they go, just if they have the chance and opportunities. Another example would be Shahid Khan, one of the 400 richest Americans, who is entirely self-made. Pakistan's government should take cues from these success stories.
Sadiq Khan's election will be a boost to the British Pakistani community, particularly those living in the formerly deprived mill towns who are slowly climbing the path to education and economic prosperity. I won't be a surprised if some 50 years down the track, the prime minister of UK is a Pakistani.
@Mahmood That would be amazing.Muslims all over the world need to unite and make it happen
This shows that the Londoners believe in choosing the best man to run their city without paying much attention to his religious background and what has been said about him during a bitter campaign.Good luck to Mr Sadiq who has been elected to run one of the worlds most popular cities definitely a difficult job and he will with hard work come up to the expectations of the residents of London.
@GA now??? This shows you guys are not made for secularism by large
@A shah Same here but I hope he doesn't stop there.
@pervez good one
Good for UK. They really mean it!
Now you are the mayor of the city. Notwithstanding, your religious background, you have to serve the people without any discrimination on the basis of color, religion, origin.
What does religion have anything to do with being Mayor?
@immo just one, in an entire nation!! & you feel proud of it??
Salute to London. Voters focused the real grounds rather than religion.
@Tabish you had!! In India we have had Presidents, Defence Ministers, PMs, successful businessmen as muslims not at all including Bollywood or sports!!!
Congrats Mr. Khan.
This is called democracy in its true sense.
Can we think to elect a Mayor from non-Muslim Community? No!
But Sadiq Khan not only bagged Muslim votes but also got tremendous support from non- Muslims votes.
We as a Muslim should not be succumbed to our fragile ego. Non- Muslims also can do the best and helpful to administer state's affairs. All human beings irrespective of cast, creed and colour are equal in the eyes of law. Pakistan people should show broad mindedness and take initiative.
Mr. Sadiq your victory is the winning of progressive, liberal non-prejudiced forces. Congratulation!
Where is this so called islamophobia? Western countries are very open and accommodating. Minorities get respect. Please learn.
After reading majority of comments here what i don't understand is why his victory is a good news for pakistanis. He was born is London lived his whole life in london and here we are saying 'Good news for Pakistanis' or a 'proud moment for Pakistanis'. He has won well good on him
@AuK When it is good it makes us Pakistanis proud. But when it is bad it is South Asians?
@A shah "Great news for Pakistan and Muslims across the world. I hope he introduces Islam teachings in London." Very good statement, Muslim countries also same way elect capable minority candidates in important positions including head of state, when this happens that will be golden day for Islam and humanity. All communities irrespective of their faith living together with peace and harmony is need of the time as science and technology brought all humans close to each other, hatred intolerance and extremism should be discarded by all irrespective of their belief.
Congratulations is in order. He has to be the Mayor all Londoners,he may be a Muslim by faith but when he chairs the council meetings he has to be a Londoner and a British first.
@Mahmood There already is, for the past eight years or so!
Thanks to the people of London who elected an Asian (Pakistani) as their Mayor... can any Pakistan elect any Brit as Mayor of their any city ???This called diffrence .They elected Mr Khan ..not a Muslim ... this is the diffrence ..
@Akshay I really doubt if your an Indian!! if yes you wouldn't have made such a statement, have you heard of Dr. APJ Kalam?? The present wise President is Muslim, The P.M. was a Sikh, the Defence minsters have been Christians, not naming any state chief ministers, it took England hundreds of years to actually accept a muslim in a lead role, & on the other hand India has been supporting all its minorities from Ages & still you find faults..
great achievement by sadiq khan. In true democracies the son of a chaiwallah can become PM and the son of a driver can become Mayor.
UK is a secular country. There is no discrimination in the name of religion of race.
Just because someone's parents was born in pakistan does not make him a pakistani
Bonjour victory by a Muslim Mp
@immo You are so irritated by Anuj's question. The reason is you know the correct answer. Don't deceive yourself.
A welcome victory for sadiq khan
I hope this example will encourage Muslims to treat Christians and other minorities better
congratulations
Why we see every thing in view of religion ???
Sadiq khan's election as mayor of London is the manifestation of the Moslim talent and success in the face of negative and anti- Moslim propaganda in the West.Asian Moslems especially those of Pakistan origin who have successfully integrated into the host countries' politico social systems have the potentials to rise to any and all levels of state structures. Thousands of those engaged in professional and political fields have been contributing in the economic, social and scientific development of western societies. Talent flourishes if equal opportunities are provided negating favoritism and nepotism and encouraging merit. Will Pakistan follow this line?
@IMMO ,CJ is a not a elected post . Public elected posts are representation of democracy. Any mayor /cm /or pm can you name ?
At last a role model for Pakistanis in England. Thank God the country has something to look forward to.
WE indians have scores of such ole models.
Proud of Sadiq Khan.
Viva! Bravo! Mubarak ho! Absolutely fantastic! Yes, this is a picture of how to be unbiased and objective. Congrats again!. Salams
Pakistanis need not be so happy, if you ask him about Pakistan, he won't have very good opinions and not even know much about it or its people. He is British and Pakistan has nothing to do with his success. Anyway, can a bus driver's son in Pakistan become the Mayor of Islamabad? I don't think so.!
Instead of seeing it from religious angle , we should take inspiration from the fact that a driver's son will hold the top london post. So nothing is unachievable.
This just shows...what London is...a truly global metropolis...something for all Muslim capitals to learn from and emulate.
Great achievement Mr. Khan. Sadly it highlights the wasted potential of the people of the subcontinent.
I do hope that Mr. Khan will establish a mechanism for stopping dirty money, stolen from poor countries, from being invested in London's property market. This will also help poor Londoners in owning properties at manageable cost.
Can it happen in a Muslim country!
But, is this possible in Muslim majority country ? are we Muslims allowed to show such kind of liberalism by our concious? Means will Muslims elect a non Muslim Mayor as people of London did?
@Anuj - For your kind informations, Pakistan has Rana Bagwan Das as enterim Chief Justice of Supreme Court. He was among the most respected Supreme Court judge. We have so many non-muslims Pakistanis, who are serving at key positions.
This is the start of the Islamic wave across Europe. He needs to allow the development of mosques over other places of worship.
The lesson is we must follow their education system.
Big achievement for Mr. Khan and Secularism. Christians in a Christian-Majority country elect a Muslim-Citizen as their mayor. Can this happen in today's Pakistan?
Sir we are proud of you the whole lot was against you, congratulations for this great victory...
Sharia for London becoming reality.
Congratulations to Pakistan. This shows London's secularism and we Pakistanis love it..
The irony is very stark.
A Muslim can become a Mayor of a Western City, an MP or a European Parliament, or even Governor of a State or Province in North America, perhaps even a PM or President of a Western nation. But a Palestinian cannot achieve the same in any Arab country, but can in Israel. A Syrian cannot become an MP in Lebanon or Iraq or any other Arab country. A Muslim cannot run for any public office, or even claim citizenship in any Arab country, no matter how many generations his family toiled in the sands of Arabia!
In that regard, I will always have more respect for Western democratic system - no matter how imperfect, than any dynastic, closed and repressive regimes in the Arab world. Some of which have been blessed with enormous wealth but have done nothing to share it with their poor neighbors. Sad, but true.
Mr. Sadiq Khan we are happy for you and proud of your Pakistani roots.
So when will a Pakistani city have its first christian/hindu mayor?
The momentum is on.
First a first black president of the U.S. Now a first Muslim Mayor of a major Western Capital.
In the meantime, in the Middle Eastern countries, the harbingers of 'The Golden Age', the archaic system of 'sponsorship or kifalat' continues, which essentially is another version of 'enslavement' by the employer.
No chance for any foreigner, much less a fell0w-Muslim tgaining citizenship in any Gulf country, no matter how long you or your family lived there. Much less be able to run for public office. While the world is moving forward,
Autocratic Arab kingdoms, now living in the 'Dark Ages'.
We should learn from this as the true spirit of democracy. You dont have to be generational politician to lead people. Hats off to Londoners for rising above bias and hatred. Hopefully In Pakistan we can do the same.
Guys just to add my roots are from Peshawar. I love Pakistan and my friends list includes lot when it comes to my fellow bro Indian Muslims.
when pakistan have president/prime minister/chief ministers from minorities?
It looks good on Londoners, now Mr. Sadiq Khan has to prove that he worth the trust of his voters and is a fit person to be a mayor of London.
@Weirdity that is his number 1 priority actually. That's why we voted for him.
In a mayoral vote, getting 57% is a huge achievement, usually candidates in the past won by small margins. London citizens know Pakistanis as very dynamic. Sadiq khan will make a mark during his tenure.
Congratulations to Mr Sadik. A humble but determined person and a committed political worker. A happy moment for Londoners, Labour party, Asians, Muslims Pakistanis and everyone. May be PTI and IK will review their role.
@Mahmood Sorry mate it's not about Muslim, it's all about hard work and dedication to serve people irrespective of their race, colour, religion etc.
Can Pakistan reciprocate by electing a Christian Mayor?
MashAllah.
It just goes to show, what Pakistan could be if it had genuine and sincere leadership, Rule of law and value for meritocracy!!!
@A shah Are you serious? And you wonder why Pakistan does not progress
@Akshay Our PM is a chaiwallah Akshay How much more mobility can be there
The majority of Pakiatanis did not vote for Sadiq Khan. He is British born whose grand father migrated to Karachi from India. Finally his father decided to settle in UK. He is secular British national Muslim
Today London has made me proud again. True democracy and a highly evolved society . We shall also get there at some point but not in near future.
Great achievement and success............ for all Pakistani in UK and around the world................. next will be the PM position .............. soon............. very soon. Now you can see how fair the British people are...................... this is a great success.............
Every society around the globe will feel positivity of Pakistanis becoming part of them except some societies who had fed their gens about negativity of Pakistan.
Love London City of opportunities and hard work pays. Pak nation wake up!
Well done Sir. Your story will inspire millions of children.
@A Shah Soon they will be everywhere my friend :-)
@Mahmood Why do you want a Muslim to become president of USA?
@k k tiwari ofc is British, but all his four grandparents migrated from Indian Punjab to Pakistan.
Folks I read where he said he still has cousins in India Punjab, so we are also happy he has become mayor.
@A Shah Lets hope he builds more mosques and start slowly implementing Sharia little by little.Other European countries will hopefully follow suit.
Muslims UNITE!!
@Roussou He has made all British proud and all Pakistanis should be ashamed not proud, because in Pakistan a son of bus driver getting elected even as a union council chairman is unthinkable.
@Roussou A correction- *First "Pakistani", not Asian.
Proven loyal pakistani origin UK citizen we congratulate you
@Khaled Lets hope not! He was elected precisely because British voters don't like religion in their politics.
Look at the confidence at the face of Sadiq Khan. It does not matter what is your status today, what matter are, your goals. He is a role model for European Muslims. We Muslim living in Europe should invest in the higher education of our children and they will be make us proud. I am happy to observe that most of Pakistanis invest their time, energy and money in the higher education of their children.
I hope more and more Pakistanis will join Politics, Science, Media, Business, Law etc in Europe/North AMerica.
@Skeptic that's nice..more coming.
Good News for Pakistanis, now we will get free visas for London!!!
@Anuj it took centuries of democracy in UK to reach this mile stone today, are you ready to give us one fourth of that time after all it's been only 68 yrs that Pakistan came into being.
@Roussou see what pakistanis can do if they are born out of Pakistan , Great people born in wrong country probably ,
The world is changing fast, including in terms of global population blending physically and intellectually. It goes to the credit of Western democracy that developments like the election of Obama in the USA and now Sadiq Khan in the UK, demonstrate its compatibility with the changing realities of the world.
There is valuable lesson for us, if we cared to learn.
@Serious Senior - A BIG NO!
Ok, that's great. Congratulations to London and Mayor Sadiq Khan. Now its Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Riyadh, Dubai, Baghdad, Tehran, Dhaka, Istanbul's turn to show that you can also elect minorities to the top office. Who goes first.
I do not know why most Indians here are giving negative comments. They should also be proud that a South Asian has become Mayor of London.
kudos London and England ... time for some inner search ...treat minorties fairly
I was not surprised. I will be surprised if a Hindu or Christian is selected as CM in Pakistan.
@A Khan Why not?
If you are a citizen of a country, it is your civic right to run for the highest office, if you meet the qualifications.
That's a far cry from Pakistan, where any rich person can simply buy votes without even the barest minimum qualifications.
@Anuj yes, Rana Bagwandas was the Former acting Chief Justice of Pakistan.
Very Happy for Sadiq Khan. A Great day for ethnic minorities in UK.
Congratulations.
Will we as a so-called "MUSLIM" ever see a bus driver's son or as a matter of fact anyone from the non-elite, elected as an MNA/MPA on his own competence? Bravo Britain..!
Congratulations to Khan. Keep up good work.
Proud to be a south Asian heritage. Congrats Mr. Sadiq Khan.
This is not a victory for Pakistan or Muslims. This is a victory of secularism and the liberal citizens of London ....
@Israr_Ahmed The last non-Muslim mayor of Karachi was mayor Misquita, who was from Karachi's once thriving Goan Catholic community that contributed a lot to Karachi and to Pakistan. Would any Pakistani city elect a mayor from the Hindu, Catholic, Anglo-Indian, or Parsi communities today?
@ Anuj Sir for your very kind information one of our ex chief justice of SUPREME COURT OF PAKISTAN was hindu by religion "CHIEF JUSTICE(rtd) RANA BAGHWAN DAS"
Pakistan needs to learn some lesson from it, "Choose your leaders purely on merits".
@Mahmood When will Pakistan have a christian president
He is no doubt capable and charismatic. But his success is upto the muslim population. Yielding to unreasonable demands with religious constraints will make him look indeed like a mayor in Pakistan which I am sure he will not. In fact he will be aware that his actions will be the template on which future muslim candidates in western democracies will be reckoned.
I consider London as Pakistan's second capital because all political problems are being solved there only. Now Sadiq Khan is there, we will see Pakistani footfall will increase in hope.
Good. On the other hand, Trump is going to become American president.
@khalil only one?
Thanks God i didn't see Pakistani Nazhaad in your heading
We are missing the point. It is not that a muslim got elected but that he was elected by all Londoners belonging to diverse religions and ethnicities without any hint hatred against this man. There is a lesson for muslims around the world to learn and practice what Londoners have taught us.
Good job khan
@Zimbo_Indian You said it bro!
I wish Pakistan was in news often with this kind of articles. It is refresing and Congrats to all!
@Masood Bhai Sadiq Khan won not because he is a Muslim but his personality, secular attitude and drive to do a good job. Religion should be a personal thing. He has faith and religious. He follows as a policy Live and let live. Try electing a non-Muslim as Mayor at Islamabad. See how the attitude of the world changes on Pakistan.
@Anuj yes we did. Jogendra Nath Mandal was the minister of labor right after partition.
Congrats, Mr Khan! You have made history with your hard work and perseverance in the face of adversity. First Muslim and first Pakistani origin Mayor of one of the greatest cities in the world! Wishing you all the best in the future as the mayor of London. I am sure you'll be the best mayor London has ever had!
Sadiq Khan, Congratulations. You created history. In this period when Islamophobia is at peek, your election speaks a lot about yourself and British democracy. Kudos to all. We pray for your success.
@Anuj Is it necessary that only a non Muslim mayor will solve your problem? Our chief justice was a Hindu.
@pure ind that shows how capable Muslims are!
This is what democracy and secularism is about and more importantly it is entrenched in the hearts and minds of the citizens not just in constitution. Also it shows choosing the right candidate is important and not his religion or ethicity or the party he/she belongs to.
First of all hearty Congratulations to Londoners who rejected the rhetorics of awe and fear and upheld the values of true democracy.
@Lafanga
Lafange -- when the san bernardino terrorists were rightly called pakistanis because their parents were pakistanis, you started crying and complaining!!
so why are you proud now?! -- you cannot have it both ways -- either the san bernardino terrorists were pakistanis too, else this guy is not a pakistani
Muslim umma should seriously confront a question - can a Christian become Mayor of Islamabad, Bagdad, Kahira or Riad ?
Hopefully he will convince British Airways to fly to pakistan!!
British Airways has several daily flights to India -- but absolutely no flights to pakistan
British Airways does not fly anywhere to pakistan -- they fly 8 daily flights to India, and also joined Air India in the Star Alliance
can S Khan get British Airways to fly to pakistan?!
Khan is NOT a Pakistani he is British . He speaks out in favour of Minoroties and does not tolerate religious bigotry against Jews - so please stop pretending he is part Pakistani - he is a decent , brave man with strong morals
@pervez Use the opportunities wisely and modestly. Rotterham like cases should not be repeated.
I am an Indian Muslim, proud of my identity and my roots. But time and again I am ashamed of the absolute hypocrisy of the Muslim community around the world. Wherever we are in a majority, we insist on Islamic law, ensure preferential treatment of Muslims, and silence, either by word or sword, any talk about secularism. But wherever we are in a minority, we scream about equality, racism, marginalisation, multiculturalism and what not. The same people who are feeling "proud" of Mr Khan will also never accept a non Muslim in any elected position of power in a Muslim majority country (the key word here being 'elected', and not a nominated member). The same people who blame America and the West for all the problems in the Muslim world, will happily run there when they get a visa to live or work. Honestly, why are Muslims so hypocritical? It is only for this reason that we have become a laughing stock and a subject of ridicule in the world.
Dont understand why religious identity is highlighted so much...!! is it because of religious identity he has become mayor or because of his ability ? why no Islamic countries taking example of such vibrant secular democratic step of letting eligible one to lead city while not looking at his faith. it's a sad story that his abilities are not discussed while his ethnic and religious identity are matter of discussion. and sorry to those readers, insisting that's its good for muslims and pakistanis. he is for every one living in london. please keep this in mind. he is not there to do favor to specific nationalities or faith... stop looking world from prism of religion.
Congratulation Sadiq Khan, The great people of London trust you.
Why did the other candidate turn his back during Sadiq's speech? Is that a rule?
@Anuj , can completely understand your anguish, nobody is going berserk over the victory, he has nothing to do with Pakistan, he is a British national with UK passport and I can bet that he has never visited his parents birth country so that takes care of your one point of anguish, secondly if some people start claiming such personalities that does not speak for the whole nation. Lastly, what about the religious and cultural divide in your own country. There is a very old saying that sitting in a glass house do not throw stones at others. Have a nice day reading Dawn news, it really has some very interesting articles on almost all subjects.
@Imran ali , please do not comment just for the heck of it, take the context into consideration.
@Anuj Justice Bhagwan Das was the chielf Justice of Pakistan
Jinnah also had non-muslims in his cabinet