In an ambitious move, Tarun Ghulati, an investment banker of Indian origin, has thrown his hat into the ring for the mayoral elections slated for May 2024. If successful, he aspires to become the first Mayor of London with Indian roots.
Seeking to galvanise support, Ghulati has actively engaged with the Kerala community, holding discussions with key figures from the UK-Kerala Business Forum, namely Philip Abraham and Pius John Kunnaserry, to assess and gather backing for his candidacy. Plans are also in place to meet with various Malayalee organisations to further bolster his campaign.
Having called London home for nearly two decades, the Delhi born entrepreneur officially announced his candidacy last month. Ghulati envisions a London that not only retains its status as the world’s leading global city but also ensures the safety and empowerment of its residents.
He told Business Forum leaders that a focal point of his agenda is to make affordable housing accessible to Londoners, both for purchase and rental, fostering a vibrant and inclusive urban community.
In an interview with the BBC, Ghulati highlighted his primary goal of revitalizing the city’s mobility by scrapping the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). Additionally, he proposed abolishing the congestion charge on weekends and holidays while initiating a thorough review of 20mph speed limit zones and Low Traffic Neighbourhoods.
Opting to run as an independent candidate, Ghulati is confident that his ideas will resonate with the public, ultimately leading to success in the elections. However, he faces stiff competition from the current Labour incumbent, Sadiq Khan, who is seeking re-election.
Other notable candidates in the London mayoral race include Susan Hall from the Conservative Party, Rob Blackie representing the Liberal Democrats, Zoe Garbett of the Green Party, and independent candidates Natalie Campbell, Howard Cox, and Andreas Michli.
The London mayoral election is scheduled for May 2, 2024, promising a dynamic contest as candidates vie for the opportunity to shape the future of the iconic city.
