Record Number of Muslim Candidates Running in New Zealand’s Local Elections
The country’s 2025 local government elections are witnessing an unprecedented moment, with a record number of Muslim candidates standing for councils, wards and local boards. From Christchurch and Porirua to Auckland and Wellington, Muslim voices are entering the political arena in greater numbers than ever before, challenging stereotypes and reshaping civic life in Aotearoa.
Muslims make up just 1.3% of New Zealand’s population, around 65,000 people, yet their presence in local politics has traditionally been minimal. This year, that is changing. “We want harmony in our society,” said Imam Gamal Fouda, who is contesting a seat on Christchurch’s Riccarton Community Board. “We want to be part of it, not apart from it.” Fouda rose to global prominence after leading prayers at Al Noor Mosque days after the 2019 Christchurch terror attacks. Now, he is turning his advocacy into civic engagement, seeking a place in local decision-making.
Christchurch, the city most deeply scarred by the 2019 attacks, is now seeing a wave of Muslim candidates. Among them are Fouda, campaigning as an independent on a platform of unity, safety and trust, and Zahra Hussaini, also standing as an independent for the Waimairi Local Board.
Hussaini, an Afghan-born youth advocate and human rights activist, said: “This is about breaking barriers and making sure young Muslim women are seen and heard.”
Further north in Porirua, 21-year-old Rabeea Inayatullah is standing for the Northern Ward, making her one of the youngest Muslim candidates nationwide. Her campaign has already drawn attention after her billboards were defaced with Islamophobic slogans. “We are part of this country,” she declared. “We deserve a voice.” Her platform focuses on youth participation, climate action and equity, issues resonating strongly with her generation.
Auckland has emerged as the center of Muslim political participation, with at least six candidates contesting seats this year. Among them is Aadil Basha, a Blockhouse Bay resident with more than 25 years’ experience in finance and entrepreneurship. As a franchise owner of Driving Miss Daisy, he emphasizes service, accessibility and community trust. At a recent Adala Civics Forum, Auckland’s Muslim candidates addressed voters, outlining their visions for inclusive governance.
“We need more voices at the table — voices that reflect the communities we live in,” said Soraiya Daud, a campaigner on migrant rights and environmental justice.
Read More:
In Wellington, Afnan Al-Rubayee, a former Iraqi refugee, is standing for the Pukehīnau/Lambton Ward under the Labour Party banner. Her campaign highlights housing affordability, public transport and social inclusion, issues central to the capital’s diverse communities.
The rise in Muslim participation is widely seen as part of a broader shift in New Zealand’s civic landscape, with many pointing to the 2019 Christchurch attacks as a catalyst for greater political engagement. In 2019, fewer than six Muslim candidates contested local elections nationwide. In 2025, more than 12 are running, double the number six years ago.
While Muslims remain underrepresented in public office, the 2025 elections mark a significant step towards inclusion. For many, the campaign is about more than winning seats, it is about building trust, visibility and a stronger sense of belonging. With candidates contesting across Christchurch, Porirua, Auckland and Wellington, this year’s polls could signal a historic turning point for Muslim representation in New Zealand politics.
Source: madhyamamonline.com
