In a historic ceremony held at the Royal Courts of Justice, MP Shabana Mahmood took the oath as the United Kingdom’s first female Muslim Lord Chancellor.
The occasion marked a significant milestone in British history, with Ms. Mahmood swearing her oath on the Holy Quran. As mandated by law, the Lord Chancellor serves as the secretary of state for justice and the minister responsible for the administration of courts and legal aid in England and Wales.
Presiding over the ceremony, Dame Sue Carr, the first female Chief Justice, highlighted its historic significance. She remarked, “Today signifies a ‘triple first’: the first Lord Chancellor to swear on the Quran, the first female Lord Chancellor, and the first instance of a female Chief Justice administering the oath to a Lord Chancellor. These milestones reflect the ongoing evolution of our constitution to reflect the society it serves.”
Ms. Mahmood, recognized for her sharp advocacy and extensive understanding of professional ethics, expressed gratitude and dedication. She reflected on her journey from her upbringing in Small Heath, Birmingham, where she worked in her parents’ corner shop, to her current prestigious role.
“To be the ‘first’ is both an honor and a responsibility. Getting this right can pave the way for future generations, demonstrating that even the oldest titles in the land are attainable for all,” she remarked. She also noted that she is the first Lord Chancellor proficient in Urdu.
The ceremony drew notable figures such as Law Society President Nick Emmerson and Bar Chair Sam Townend KC, who praised Ms. Mahmood’s commitment to justice and anticipated her positive influence on the legal system.
During her swearing-in at the London event, Ms. Mahmood pledged to continue advocating for “the international rule of law and the protection of human rights.” She emphasized the judiciary’s duty to make decisions free from political pressure and undue influence, pledging to champion the rule of law.