Lib Dems select Shaffaq Mohammed to fight for Brightside and Hillsborough seat

The city councillor for the Ecclesall ward launched his campaign for the parliamentary seat earlier today (Wednesday, March 2). The seat has been vacant since the death of the late Labour MP Harry Harpham in February.

Coun Mohammed said: “It is time Labour stopped taking local people for granted.

“I have fought for Sheffield to have a liberal voice all my life. Labour has failed the people of Sheffield by being anti business, our city is open for business and welcomes companies who want to invest here. I will fight to bring jobs to Sheffield and give people employment opportunities so residents can stay and work in Sheffield.

“I will make the positive case for another liberal voice in Sheffield.”

Coun Mohammed joined the city council 11 years ago. He was awarded an MBE last year for his charity and community work.

MP for Sheffield Hallam Nick Clegg said: “Shaffaq has a strong record of delivering for the people of Sheffield, I am delighted he will be fighting to add another strong Liberal voice for our city in parliament.”

Leader of the Liberal Democrats Tim Farron added: “I am delighted that Shaffaq will be representing the Liberal Democrats in this by election. I look forward to an open and positive campaign talking about the issues which really matter to Sheffield.”

Coun Mohammed will be up against one of three women on Labour’s shortlist. They are Mr Harpham’s widow and city councillor Gill Furniss, fellow councillor Jayne Dunn, and Dr Jayne Lim.

All-woman shortlist for Labour in Brightside and Hillsborough by-election.