Leicester’s civic leadership entered a new chapter this week as Councillor Kulwinder Singh Johal was officially sworn in as the city’s Lord Mayor for the 2026-27 term. At a ceremony held at the Town Hall on Thursday, May 14, Cllr Singh Johal received the chain of office, pledging to serve the residents of Leicester with openness, respect, and humility.
Charitable focus on food security and healthcare
The new Lord Mayor of Leicester has identified two local organizations to champion during his year in office. He will support the Midland Langar Seva Society, which provides food and relief to the homeless, and the Leicester Hospitals Charity. The latter partnership aims to improve early diagnosis for diabetes and kidney disease, issues that significantly impact the local community.
“I’ve chosen to highlight the important work that’s carried out by two brilliant local charities,” Cllr Singh Johal stated. He emphasized that both organizations deserve public backing for their commitment to ensuring residents have basic necessities and access to preventative healthcare.
A life of service in Braunstone Park and Rowley Fields
Having represented the Braunstone Park & Rowley Fields ward since 2015, the Lord Mayor’s commitment to the city is deeply rooted in his personal history. Before entering local politics, he spent 25 years working at Russell Castings Ltd, a local foundry. This experience shaped his dedication to trade union values and the rights of workers.
His Sikh faith and the principle of seva, or selfless service, serve as the foundation for his community work. He previously served as General Secretary of Guru Nanak Gurdwara and was instrumental in the development of GNG Football Club, promoting inclusive sports for young people. His wife, Manjit Kaur Johal, will serve as Lady Mayoress, supported by their children, Gursimran and Ashvir.
The historic role of Leicester’s first citizen
The office of the Mayor in Leicester dates back to 1209, with the title elevated to Lord Mayor in 1928. This long-standing tradition continues with Cllr Dr Susan Barton serving as Deputy Lord Mayor and the outgoing Lord Mayor, Cllr Teresa Aldred, taking the role of High Bailiff.
The city’s heritage, which has shaped many notable figures from the Leicester upbringing of Sir David Attenborough to its modern civic leaders, reflects a deep connection between its residents and its institutions. Cllr Singh Johal now steps into this historic lineage, focusing on the immediate needs of the population.
Source: Leicester City Council
Comments