Key Points
- Birmingham Labour councillor Waseem Zaffar MBE has died, prompting tributes from across the political spectrum.
- Zaffar represented Lozells Ward since 2011 and served on key council committees including Sustainability and Transport Overview & Scrutiny.
- He was a prominent figure in Birmingham politics, nearly becoming council leader in 2022 and tipped for leadership role ahead of 2026 elections.
- Colleagues and party sources highlighted his influence within the Labour Party and role in local decision-making.
Birmingham (Birmingham Express) January 31, 2026 – Tributes have poured in following the death of Labour councillor Waseem Zaffar MBE, a longstanding representative of Lozells Ward and influential figure in Birmingham City Council.
Zaffar, who joined the council in May 2011, was actively serving until his office expiry in 2026 and held positions on the Sustainability and Transport Overview & Scrutiny Committee and Neighbourhoods Overview & Scrutiny Committee.
His passing has shocked the local political community, with figures recalling his near-appointment as council leader in 2022 when he fell two votes short.
Who was Waseem Zaffar?
According to Birmingham City Council records, Councillor Waseem Zaffar MBE was elected for Lozells Ward and provided consistent service from May 2011 onwards, hosting regular advice surgeries at the Lighthouse Young People’s Centre.
As reported by The Jewish Chronicle, Zaffar wielded significant influence within the Labour Party in Birmingham, including control over council selections ahead of the 2026 elections, according to former MP Khalid Mahmood.
What reactions have emerged following his death?
Party sources and colleagues have expressed shock at Zaffar’s death, noting his potential to assume leadership of Britain’s second largest city after the May elections.
How did Zaffar shape Birmingham politics?
Zaffar was praised by figures such as deputy leader Lucy Powell for his role in her election and participated in key decisions, including a Safety Advisory Group meeting on fan arrangements for a football match.
His commitment to local issues was evident through monthly advice surgeries, where residents could raise concerns directly with him.
What happens next in Birmingham Council?
With Zaffar’s office set to expire in 2026, his death leaves a vacancy in Lozells Ward representation and ongoing committee roles, potentially impacting Labour’s preparations for upcoming elections.
Council procedures will guide the process for filling the position and managing his committee duties in the interim.
