It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Mushtaq Ahmad OBE, former Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, who died peacefully on Sunday 15 September 2024. Mushtaq was appointed as Lord Lieutenant in 2010, a role he held with distinction and dedication until he retired in 2017.
Mushtaq was a respected teacher, politician and community leader, recognised with an OBE for his services to local government. His commitment to the people and communities of Lanarkshire will leave a lasting legacy.
Mushtaq was born in India and brought up in Pakistan, before moving to Britain. He worked in industry before gaining an MA degree at the University of Glasgow. He completed teacher-training at Jordanhill and taught in Hamilton and the East End of London. In 1977, he became the first organiser of the Adult Literacy programme in Hamilton and 11 years later was elected to the former Hamilton District Council for Dalserf. Following the re-organisation of local government in the mid-nineties, he became a South Lanarkshire councillor and held his seat until he stepped down from the council in 2007. He served as Depute Provost and, in May 2003, he was elected Provost, a post he held until 2007.
As the first Asian Lord Lieutenant and Provost in Scotland, his appointment was not just a personal triumph but a significant milestone for the region and the nation. His passion for fostering unity and his ability to navigate and transcend cultural boundaries earned him respect across many communities.
Lady Susan Haughey CBE, the current Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, said: “I am deeply saddened by the death of Mushtaq Ahmad. His dedication to his role and the community was extraordinary. He will be fondly remembered and sadly missed by all who knew him. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
Funeral details will be shared once confirmed. Mushtaq Ahmad’s contributions to Lanarkshire, from his early years as a teacher to his service as Provost of South Lanarkshire and then Lord Lieutenant of Lanarkshire, will not be forgotten.