Investigation into complaint against incoming mayor concludes with no findings

Photo: Rochdale Borough Council

Deputy Mayor Shakil Ahmed

An investigation into the conduct of the incoming Rochdale mayor has concluded.

Councillor Shakil Ahmed, who chairs the council’s planning and licensing committee, faced an investigation following a complaint that was made against him before the local elections in May 2023.

It is understood the complaint was lodged against the Kingsway ward representative before the council went into the ‘purdah’ period last year.

A timeline of the investigation, or what it entailed, has not been revealed by the council. No findings were made and the matter has concluded.

Councillor Ahmed will be sworn in as Rochdale’s new mayor next month. His seat on the council is not up for grabs until 2026.

The Labour politician will take over from Conservative Councillor Mike Holly, who presided over his last council meeting as ceremonial mayor last month.

A Rochdale council spokesperson said: “The investigation has concluded and relevant parties have been informed that no findings were made against the member.”

Both Councillor Ahmed and the Labour Party were contacted by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, but declined to comment.

George Lythgoe, Local Democracy Reporter