City councillor returns as group leader

A councillor who stood down as group leader of Peterborough First earlier this year has returned to the role.

Mohammed Farooq took over leadership from Chris Harper in October 2024 after Harper spent two years in charge.

But Farooq has now decided to step down, with Harper reselected by his colleagues to become their leader again.

Speaking after the group's AGM, he said he was "delighted and truly honoured" to reassume the position.

He told the Local Democracy Reporting Service: "I take over from Cllr Farooq who did a great job and will stay within the group to support us.

"What I would say to people is watch this space, as there are big things coming for Peterborough First.

"We've established ourselves as opposition but we don't just want to remain as opposition.

"We are willing to stand up and be counted, but to do that we need new people.

"One of our major goals is to start the recruitment process for, if it happens, the 2026 elections. We will be looking to recruit the right type of people to push our numbers up.

"Our goal is to run this council. It's as simple as that."

City council elections are scheduled for May 2026, however there is uncertainty about whether they will go ahead due to the re-organisation of local government.

There is a possibility Peterborough City Council may have to combine with other neighbouring authorities.

Farooq, a former leader of the city council, took over as group leader last October due to Harper's other commitments.

He said it was "absolutely great news" he was back in charge of the group.

"Chris has always been our leader," he said.

"He came off because his work commitments were very busy last year so I came in and covered for him. We are all very great friends in the group.

"Now his work commitments have reduced a bit so I asked him to come and take over."

Farooq said it was a "privilege" to lead the group and wished Harper the best for the future.

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