Portsmouth’s new Lord-Mayor Cllr Abdul Kadir has vowed to ‘bring people of all faiths together’ so that ‘everyone feels part of our great city’.
Speaking at the mayor-making ceremony at Portsmouth Guildhall after being elected, Cllr Kadir said:
“To be elected as the 100th Lord-Mayor of this city, especially in this historic 100th year as a city, is an honour too great to put into words.
“I’m proud to call Portsmouth my home. It is a city that welcomed me and has allowed me and my family to prosper and succeed. Portsmouth is defined not only by its rich heritage, but by its people, who are diverse, resilient and full of community spirit.”
Cllr Kadir called it ‘an honour and a privilege’ to continue to represent Baffins, his home of more than 30 years, after his recent re-election as Portsmouth City Council ward councillor.
He said:
“Throughout my year in office, I will work to celebrate and champion the things that makes Portsmouth so special. Our strong communities, our vibrant culture and the way we come together to support one another.
“In a world that can feel increasingly divided, it is more important than ever that we focus on unity, understanding and respect.
“As mayor I will work to bring people together, wherever you’re from, wherever in the city you live, whatever faith you have, and create the opportunity to celebrate the things that unite us.”
He also pledged to raise as much money as possible for local good causes.
Paying tribute to the incoming Lord-Mayor, Portsmouth City Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt described Cllr Kadir as a ‘real champion of our city’.
Cllr Kadir replaces outgoing Lord-Mayor Cllr Gerald Vernon-Jackson, who reflected on his mayoral year which saw £47,000 raised for over 70 local charities and good causes.
Cllr Suzy Horton is elected as the new deputy Lord-Mayor for the year.
During the ceremony the Portsmouth100 film showcasing Portsmouth’s 100 years as a city was shown.
The new Lord-Mayor presented Civic Awards to individuals and groups that have made outstanding contributions in their communities: Alison Barnes, Sally Salter, Tally Aslam, James Ralls and Terri Ralls, Portsmouth Down Syndrome Association, Sunday Suppers, Joanna Toms, Portsmouth Lifeboat Station and crew, Glenn Turnbull and John Ryder.