Plaistow councillor Forhad Hussain to step down from Newham Council

Cllr Forhad Hussain has announced he will not be standing for re-election in May.

Cllr Hussain, who has represented Plaistow North since 2010, said he wanted to “focus on my young family and develop my career further outside politics”.

He said: “I have thought about this decision a great deal, it was not an easy choice to make.

“It has been my honour and privilege to represent Plaistow North. I will always cherish the memories I have of working with local residents to deliver many successful community projects.”

The cabinet member for crime and anti-social behaviour, sports and community neighbourhoods cited the development of the First Avenue community garden and the Glen Road mural as some of his highlights, as well as the visit of the Queen to Lister Community School and both the Paralymic flame and the Tour de France passing through Plaistow High Street.

Cllr Hussain added: “I want to wish good luck to potential candidates.

“If selected and elected, you have a huge responsibility to help Newham residents improve their lives and support them in the continued challenges they face.”

He is the second councillor to announce he will not be seeking re-election, following Forest Gate North’s Cllr Seyi Akiwowo saying last month she would be stepping down after four years.

The election is due to take place on May 3.