The newly elected Mayor of Rotherham, Councillor Rukhsana Ismail JP, has said that the credit for her success goes to the Kashmiri community. She expressed deep gratitude for the countless congratulatory and appreciative messages she received from across Azad Jammu and Kashmir, calling them a “priceless and cherished asset.”
Speaking with former President of Kashmir Press Club Mirpur, Mr. Sajjad Jarral, Councillor Rukhsana Ismail said she was honoured by the trust placed in her by people from all walks of life in the UK. “Being considered worthy of this position and receiving such overwhelming respect is a tremendous honour. I am truly thankful to everyone who supported me,” she added.
Originally from Sehnsa, Azad Kashmir, Councillor Rukhsana Ismail has been residing in the United Kingdom for many years, actively participating in social and political spheres. Known for raising a strong and consistent voice for community issues, her election as Mayor of Rotherham—a prominent council in the UK—is not just a personal milestone but a matter of pride for Sehnsa and the entire region of Azad Kashmir.
Since her election, congratulatory messages have continued to pour in from across Pakistan and Azad Kashmir.
As Mayor, Rukhsana Ismail pledged to make the Rotherham community the central focus of her work. She views her role not just as a ceremonial position, but as a great responsibility and privilege. Committed to the welfare of underprivileged groups and the promotion of social harmony, she intends to work tirelessly for the betterment of society.
Apart from her mayoral responsibilities, Councillor Ismail is also a magistrate, the Chair of the South Yorkshire Community Foundation Panel, Vice Chair of UNISON Sheffield, and a trustee of several charitable organizations, including Rotherham Hospice, Rotherham Age UK, and others.
She emphasized her commitment to community welfare, unity, and progress, stating: “I will dedicate my energy to improving lives and fostering solidarity. Holding public office is a trust from God, and fulfilling it with justice is key to success in this world and the hereafter.”
Mayor Rukhsana Ismail also extended heartfelt thanks to the media community and the people of Azad Kashmir for their appreciation. She assured them that she will continue to raise her voice from the UK for the cause of Kashmir and the rights of the people of Azad Kashmir.
She concluded by expressing deep gratitude to her supporters: “I am thankful to all those who stood by me and worked day and night to make this success possible.”
