UK’s first hijab-wearing mayor Rakhia Ismail threatens legal action against Labour Party over alleged racism

Ex-councillor calls out ‘bigotry’ and demands independent inquiry

The UK's first Somali female mayor, Rakhia Ismail (Centre, L), has stepped down. (Photo by Leon Neal/Getty Images)

The UK’s first hijab-wearing mayor is threatening legal action against the country's opposition Labour Party after she quit the organisation over alleged racism.

Rakhia Ismail resigned from her role as the Mayor of Islington in north London last month, citing discrimination.

Now, Ms Ismail, who was the UK's first Somali woman mayor, is calling for an independent inquiry into the Labour-led council.

"Indeed an independent investigation is a must and some people need to take responsibility for their actions," she tweeted.

"Indeed, it's painful and more painful when you wear the Hijab and have strong beliefs of fairness and Justice. No women, men or children should ever be treated with such unfairness regardless! Totally its our responsibility...to refuse and call out Bigotry!!!"

Ms Ismail, who has also resigned as a Labour councillor after eight years, said she had stepped down because she felt "marginalised" and was not taken seriously by some male colleagues.

She said she made her decision as she felt the need to "escape" from the “oppression” of the council and the “discriminatory behaviour” of some councillors.

On Thursday, she told the HuffPost UK she was pursuing a legal claim against the "dysfunctional" Labour leadership team at the council.

“I feel that they marginalised me – my voice and concerns as a Black, Muslim woman weren’t taken into consideration at any point,” she said.

“By speaking out, I want to let members of the public know what’s going on. Labour members also need to know this and scrutinise their own members. People need to be tried and tested. There should be accountability in every level, and no one should be mistreated at all.

“Above all, the leadership of Islington Council need to resign.”

Islington Labour says it has investigated and dealt with the issues raised and has a “long history of fighting racism in all its forms”.

“We regret Councillor Ismail’s resignation, especially coming so soon after her term as Mayor of Islington, having served the borough admirably through an incredibly challenging time," the party said.

“The Labour Party takes all allegations of discrimination extremely seriously, which are fully investigated in line with our rules and procedures.”