Councillor Sohail Bashir announced as new Chairman of Council

Councillor Sohail Bashir Chairman
Councillor Sohail Bashir - new Chairman of Council

Watford Borough Council has announced Councillor Sohail Bashir as its new Chairman, with Councillor Sam Summer as Vice-Chairman, at the Annual Council meeting on Tuesday 19 May...

Councillor Sohail Bashir who represents the Vicarage ward, has lived in the town for over 40 years and has been a councillor at Watford for a total of nine years. This role has enabled him to participate in an array of volunteering opportunities, events, and council-related activities. Sohail brings a wealth of experience to his new role, with a professional background in law, business and community service.

The new Chairman has chosen Rennie Grove Peace Hospice Care and Hayaat Welfare Trust as his chosen charities, and he will spend his year in office fundraising for them. Sohail has been involved with charitable organisations for many years, dedicating a lot of time to volunteering, and his hard work has impacted many people's lives in meaningful ways. The charities:

  • Support vulnerable residents and families in need;
  • Promote youth opportunities, education and community engagement;
  • Strengthen interfaith relations and community cohesion across Watford

Chairman of the Council, Councillor Sohail Bashir, said: “I am honoured to serve as the Chairman of Watford Borough Council, and as I take on this role, I am proud to represent the voices and aspirations of all residents, regardless of background.  

“Through my volunteering and work with the community, I have witnessed firsthand the power of unity and compassion in bringing about positive change. I am therefore committed to using my platform to continue supporting my chosen charities and so many more organisation in Watford, whose invaluable work strengthens the fabric of our town.”

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “I’m really pleased that Sohail and Sam are stepping into these significant roles as the council's representatives. Their appointments reflect the broad range of backgrounds of our elected council members, and the inclusive nature of our town. They will become important representatives of our town and will visit many of the vibrant community organisations that make Watford so special.”

Sohail will be carrying out fundraising events throughout the year and wants any local businesses or groups that could help with sponsorship, venue support and fundraising, to contact him at chairman@watford.gov.uk.

Councillor Sam Summer Vice-Chairman
Councillor Sam Summer as new Vice-Chairman of the Council

Published: 20th May 2026

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