Camden Council has come under the spotlight after it emerged that Councilor Nazma Rahman, former mayor and representative for West Hampstead, spent months in hiding in Bangladesh due to escalating political violence.
The council has declined to clarify how long it was aware of Nazma’s absence, despite her recent return and attendance at a council meeting, reports This is Local London.
Initially, Borough Solicitor Andrew Maughan intended to seek a waiver to ensure that Nazma, who represents West Hampstead, would not lose her council seat despite her absence.
In his report, Maughan detailed that Nazma had traveled to Bangladesh over the summer to visit family but became entangled in the political unrest that recently escalated in the country.
Facing threats against her family, Nazma reportedly went into hiding, which delayed her return to the UK.
However, Maughan withdrew the waiver request upon discovering that Nazma was present at the council meeting, meaning her seat was no longer at risk.
A spokesperson for Camden Council confirmed to the Local Democracy Reporting Service that Nazma had “safely returned” and was once again participating in council activities.
When asked how long the council had known about her situation, the spokesperson declined to comment. They did confirm, however, that Nazma had continued receiving her council allowance as per the Members’ Allowance Scheme.
In line with council regulations, councilors must attend at least one meeting within a six-month period to maintain their seat.
Nazma’s husband, Azadur Nazma Azad, previously held a senior role with the Awami League.
When questioned about Nazma’s connection to her husband’s political affiliations or further details surrounding her delayed return, Camden Council declined to comment.
