Shabana Mahmood Became UK’s First Female Muslim Lord Chancellor

On July 16, 2024, Shabana Mahmood Became UK’s First Female Muslim Lord Chancellor. The swearing-in ceremony took place at the Royal Courts of Justice, where Mahmood took her oath on the Holy Quran, marking a significant milestone in British legal history.

Historic Significance:

• Triple First: This event marked three historic firsts: the first Lord Chancellor to swear on the Quran, the first female Lord Chancellor, and the first female Chief Justice, Dame Sue Carr, presiding over the swearing-in of a Lord Chancellor.
• Dame Sue Carr’s Remarks: Dame Sue Carr highlighted the significance of the event, stating, “These milestones represent the ongoing evolution of our constitution to mirror the society it serves.”

Shabana Mahmood’s Background:

• Early Life: Mahmood grew up in Small Heath, Birmingham, working in her parents’ corner shop. Her journey from these humble beginnings to becoming the Lord Chancellor is a testament to her dedication and perseverance.
• Professional Recognition: She is widely recognized for her shrewd advocacy and deep knowledge of professional ethics.
• Language Proficiency: Mahmood is the first Lord Chancellor who speaks Urdu, adding another layer of representation to her historic appointment.

Key Attendees:

• Prominent Figures: The ceremony was attended by notable figures including Nick Emmerson, President of the Law Society, and Sam Townend KC, Chair of the Bar. Both praised Mahmood’s dedication to justice and anticipated her positive impact on the legal system.

Mahmood’s Speech:

• Commitment and Gratitude: Mahmood expressed her gratitude and commitment, reflecting on her journey and the significance of her role. “Being the ‘first’ is both a privilege and a burden. Getting this right can open doors for future generations, showing that even the oldest titles of the land are within reach for us all,” she stated.
• Pledge to Uphold Law: She pledged to defend the international rule of law and uphold human rights. Mahmood emphasized that judiciary decisions must be made without political pressure and undue influence. “I vow to be a champion for the rule of law,” she declared.

Future Goals:

• Defending Rule of Law: Mahmood committed to defending the international rule of law and upholding human rights.
• Judicial Independence: She emphasized the importance of judiciary decisions being made without political pressure and undue influence.
• Champion for Rule of Law: Mahmood vowed to be a champion for the rule of law.

Expert Opinions:

• Significance of Dialogue: Liu Dan, a researcher at the Center for Regional Country Studies at Guangdong University, emphasized that the high-level meeting between the UK and China is crucial for addressing misunderstandings and improving bilateral relations. “This open discussion is crucial for the improvement of China-Canada relations, especially considering the limited dialogue that has taken place at various levels in recent years,” Liu noted.
• Positive Step: Nick Emmerson and Sam Townend KC expressed optimism about Mahmood’s potential impact on the legal system, praising her dedication to justice.

Shabana Mahmood’s appointment as the UK’s first female Muslim Lord Chancellor marks a significant step towards inclusivity and representation in the British legal system. Her historic swearing-in ceremony not only breaks new ground but also sets a precedent for future generations, showcasing that even the highest offices are within reach for all.