Bashir Ahmad (Scottish politician) facts for kids

Bashir Ahmad (born 12 February 1940 – died 6 February 2009) was a successful businessman and a politician in the Scottish National Party. He made history in 2007. He was the first person from a Scottish Asian, Muslim, and non-White background to be elected as a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP). He represented the Glasgow region.

Early Life and Journey

Bashir Ahmad was born in Amritsar, which was part of British India at the time. This was on 12 February 1940. When he was 21, in 1961, he moved from Pakistan to Scotland. He later became the President of the Pakistan Welfare Association five times. This shows his dedication to helping his community.

Becoming a Politician

Ahmad joined the Scottish National Party (SNP) in 1992. He wanted to encourage more Asian-Scots to join the party. So, in 1995, he started a group called Asian Scots for Independence. When he launched this group, he gave an important speech. He said, "it isn't important where you come from, what matters is where we are going together as a nation." This message was about unity and working for Scotland's future.

In 2003, Bashir Ahmad stopped working in business. He wanted to spend all his time on politics. He ran for the Glasgow City Council election that year. He won the election for the Pollokshields East ward. This was a big win against the Labour party.

When he was chosen to be on the SNP's list for Glasgow, Ahmad shared his hopes. He said it was important for Asian and ethnic minority voices to be heard in the Scottish Parliament. He believed the SNP was showing that it wanted to represent everyone in Scotland. He hoped this would build trust with the Asian community for many years.

Making History in Parliament

Flags outside the Scottish Parliament flying at half-mast after Bashir Ahmad MSP passed away.

During the 2007 elections, Bashir Ahmad was elected to the Scottish Parliament. He became an MSP for the Glasgow region. This was a very special moment. He was the first non-white and first Muslim person to become an MSP.

On the first day of the 3rd Scottish Parliament, he showed his heritage. He wore traditional Pakistani clothing. He took his oath of office in both Urdu and English language. This was a proud moment for many.

Important Work in Parliament

Bashir Ahmad worked on important issues in Parliament. He led a bill to make forced marriages a crime in Scotland. This was a big step to protect people. He also helped with a humanitarian campaign. This campaign asked Scottish hospitals to treat people badly hurt in attacks on the Gaza Strip. He especially wanted to help women and children with serious injuries.

He was also a member of the Scottish Parliament's Public Petitions Committee. This committee listens to ideas and concerns from people, groups, or organizations. They decide what action should be taken on these petitions.

Bashir Ahmad passed away on 6 February 2009. He was 68 years old and died from a heart attack. His funeral was held at the Glasgow Central Mosque. He was buried in Cathcart Cemetery.

Family Life

Bashir Ahmad is remembered by his family. He is survived by his wife, Naseem. They had five daughters and two sons. He also had 11 grandchildren.