10 Trailblazing British Asian Politicians
As the political landscape of the United Kingdom continues to evolve, the contributions of British Asian politicians have become increasingly integral to the nation’s democratic fabric.
From local constituencies to the highest levels of government, these individuals are not only shaping policy but also challenging conventions, broadening representation, and redefining what leadership looks like in modern day Britain.
This feature highlights ten distinguished figures whose work exemplifies dedication to public service and commitment to their communities. It is important to note that the individuals included are presented in no particular order.
This is not a ranking, but rather a curated selection that reflects the breadth and diversity of talent across the political spectrum. Each entry stands independently, chosen for the unique and impactful contributions they’ve made in recent years.
Nusrat Ghani made history as the first Muslim woman minister to speak from the Commons despatch box, and she currently serves as Minister of State for Industry and Economic Security. She was previously the MP for Wealden a position to which she was elected in 2015.
Known for her work on anti-extremism, women’s empowerment, and supply chain ethics, she’s one of the most influential Asian voices in the Conservative Party.
In July 2024, she was elected as the Chairman of Ways and Means, making her the first woman of colour to hold this senior Deputy Speaker position in the House of Commons.
Elected at just 26, Zarah Sultana is one of Parliament’s most vocal and dynamic younger MPs.
A proud representative of Coventry’s working-class and Muslim communities, she champions progressive causes, from climate action to anti-racism and economic justice, and has become a role model for politically engaged young people across the UK.
Sultana has effectively utilized social media platforms, particularly TikTok, to engage with a younger demographic, making her one of the most followed British politicians online.
Zarah recently announced that she was resigning from the party to found a new party with her former leader Jeremy Corbyn.
Naz Shah has represented Bradford West as an MP since 2015. Before entering Parliament, Shah worked extensively in the health and social care sector, including roles as a carer and NHS commissioner.
She also chaired Sharing Voices Bradford, a mental health charity focused on supporting Black and Minority Ethnic communities.
In Parliament, Shah has held several shadow ministerial positions, including roles focusing on women and equalities, community cohesion, and crime reduction. She is known for her advocacy on issues such as domestic violence, mental health, and social integration.
Her work extends to international concerns as well; she has spoken out on human rights issues in regions such as Kashmir and has served as the UK’s trade envoy to Indonesia and ASEAN.
A former business leader, Saqib Bhatti is part of the new wave of conservative MPs pushing for innovation-driven policy. Since entering politics, he’s built a reputation as a pro-business, tech-savvy MP who is also deeply committed to community cohesion and integration.
Before politics, Bhatti made headlines as the youngest and first Muslim president of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, where he championed regional investment, skills development, and support for SMEs.
His business experience has translated into a strong parliamentary focus on innovation, digital policy, and economic growth.
With deep ties to social justice causes both at home and abroad, Imran Hussain has been a consistent voice for marginalised communities. He frequently raises global human rights concerns, especially concerning Kashmir and Palestine, and pushes for stronger protections for low-income families across the UK.
Hussain’s political journey began at the local level when he was elected as a Labour councillor for the City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council in 2002. He served as Deputy Leader of the council from 2010 until his election to Parliament in 2015.
In Parliament, Hussain has held several shadow ministerial roles, including positions focusing on justice, international development, and employment rights.
He is known for his principled stands, such as rejecting a £1,000 donation from former Prime Minister Tony Blair during his 2015 campaign, citing his opposition to the Iraq War.
A rare combination of doctor and MP, Rosena Allin-Khan brings heart and expertise to every debate. She has been a standout advocate for mental health and the NHS, drawing on her experience working in A&E wards.
Her compassionate approach to politics shaped by her multicultural heritage (Polish and Pakistani) reflect a new style of inclusive leadership.
She has held positions such as Shadow Minister for Sport and Shadow Cabinet Minister for Mental Health. In the latter role, she advocated for comprehensive mental health reforms, including the recruitment of additional staff and the establishment of mental health support in schools and communities.
The first hijab-wearing woman elected to Parliament, Apsana Begum has stood firm in the face of adversity. She has campaigned vigorously for survivors of domestic abuse, public housing, and anti-racism policies.
Her voice is particularly powerful on behalf of working-class women and Muslim communities.
Begum has been a vocal advocate on issues such as social justice, education, and housing. She has also been involved in All-Party Parliamentary Groups focusing on childcare and early education, race and community, and Muslim women.
- Rehman Chishti (Conservative MP for Gillingham and Rainham)
Rehman Chishti has held several significant roles including Special Envoy for Freedom of Religion.
Known for his diplomatic efforts and independent political streak, Chishti briefly ran for the Conservative leadership and remains a well-respected international voice in UK politics.
Chishti was recognized for his work on religious freedom, notably campaigning for the release of Asia Bibi, a Pakistani Christian woman accused of blasphemy. He also served as the Prime Minister’s Trade Envoy to Pakistan and was involved in various parliamentary committees.
Before entering politics, Chishti pursued law at the University of Wales Aberystwyth and was called to the Bar of England and Wales at Lincoln’s Inn in 2001. He also worked as a barrister and served as a councillor in Medway Council.
Sadiq Khan’s 2016 election as London’s mayor was historic as he became the capital’s first Muslim mayor and the son of a Pakistani bus driver.
Having been re-elected for a third term in May 2024, Khan continues to push for affordable housing, transport accessibility, and environmental innovation.
Being a major advocate for environmental issues, one of Khan’s most notable initiatives is the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) across all London boroughs in 2023, aiming to reduce air pollution and improve public health.
Anas Sarwar became the first person of Asian and Muslim background to lead a major UK political party. As the head of Scottish Labour since 2021, Sarwar has energised his party with a vision rooted in equity, fairness, and optimism.
Sarwar trained as a dentist before entering politics. His journey into politics is a continuation of a family legacy as his father, Mohammad Sarwar, made history as the first Muslim MP in the UK.
He first entered Westminster politics in 2010 as MP for Glasgow Central, and later transitioned to the Scottish Parliament in 2016.
He has publicly spoken out about facing Islamophobia and racism within political and institutional settings and has led campaigns on NHS reform, poverty reduction, and education, often seeking to position Labour as a progressive alternative focused on social justice.
