Another Bangladeshi-origin figure has taken on an important role in Australian local government, with Masud Chowdhury elected the new deputy mayor of Campbelltown City Council in Sydney, New South Wales.
He was sworn in at a formal ceremony Tuesday in the Campbelltown City Council chamber, attended by councillors and local dignitaries.
After taking office, Chowdhury said the deputy mayor’s role is not simply a title but a major responsibility in civic service, one that expands both scope of work and accountability. “Campbelltown is a multicultural city, home to people speaking 73 languages. My main goal as deputy mayor is to protect the rights and interests of everyone here,” he said.
Describing his roots and his plans, Chowdhury said, “Having been born in Bangladesh, that bond will always remain. Within local law, I want to work on resolving Campbelltown’s housing crisis, planned development and, in particular, job creation for young people. I’m asking for everyone’s cooperation in that.”
Local expatriates have expressed satisfaction with Chowdhury’s new role. Sajidul Islam, a resident of Bardia in Sydney, said, “It’s a matter of pride to see a community representative in such an important role in a place like Campbelltown. This achievement will encourage the new generation growing up abroad to get involved in mainstream politics and leadership.”