The Annual Council meeting of Islington Council saw the election of Councillor Rosalyn Ogunro as the new Mayor and the re-election of Councillor Una O'Halloran as Leader of the Council. The meeting also confirmed the appointments of various councillors to key positions and committees for the upcoming municipal year.

Election of Mayor

Councillor Rosalyn Ogunro was elected as the new Mayor of Islington for the ensuing municipal year. The nomination was put forward by Councillor Saiqa Pandor, who highlighted Ogunro's extensive community involvement and her past experiences, including a harrowing incident in Nigeria where she demonstrated remarkable bravery. Councillor Toby North seconded the nomination, emphasizing Ogunro's deep roots in the Islington community and her dedication to public service.

Councillor Ogunro, in her acceptance speech, expressed her gratitude and pride in serving Islington, a borough she described as being defined by diversity, resilience, and a strong sense of community. She paid tribute to her predecessors and mentors, and thanked her family and friends for their unwavering support. Ogunro also announced her chosen charities for her mayoral year: St. Luke's Community Centre and the Islington Boat Club. She pledged to serve with dedication, inclusivity, and a focus on bringing people together, ensuring every resident feels seen, heard, and valued.

Appointment of Deputy Mayor

Councillor Jilani Chowdhury was appointed as the Deputy Mayor.

Election of Leader of the Council

Councillor Una O'Halloran was re-elected as the Leader of Islington Council. Councillor Jilani Chowdhury nominated O'Halloran, highlighting her leadership through a challenging election campaign that resulted in a fifth consecutive Labour administration. Councillor Sheila Chapman seconded the nomination, praising O'Halloran's dedication and commitment to making Islington a fairer borough.

Councillor O'Halloran, in her address, emphasized her commitment to making decisions for the benefit of Islington residents, drawing strength from her Catholic faith. She also acknowledged the hard work of council officers and the importance of working collaboratively. Councillor Benali Hamdache, Leader of the Opposition Group, thanked Councillor Jason Jackson for his service as outgoing Mayor and welcomed the new Mayor and Deputy Mayor. He also acknowledged the record turnout in the recent elections and thanked all those who participated in the civic process.

Appointment of Deputy Leader and the Executive

Councillor Ruth Hayes was appointed as Deputy Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Health and Social Care. The Executive appointments for the upcoming year were confirmed as follows:

• Leader of the Council: Councillor Una O'Halloran
• Deputy Leader and Executive Member for Health and Social Care: Councillor Ruth Hayes
• Executive Member for Children, Young People & Families: Councillor Sheila Chapman
• Executive Member for Homes and Neighbourhoods: Councillor Jason Jackson
• Executive Member for Finance: Councillor Paul Convery
• Executive Member for Inclusive Economy and Planning: Councillor James Potts
• Executive Member for Climate, Environment and Transport: Councillor Rowena Champion
• Executive Member for Community Safety and Neighbourhoods: Councillor Heather Staff
• Executive Member for Communities and Partnerships: Councillor Saiqa Pandor

Political Balance and Committee Appointments

The council agreed to the proposed allocation of seats on committees, reflecting the political balance of the council, with an agreed alternative allocation for the Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee. Changes to the council's constitution were also approved, including revisions to the terms of reference for the Licensing Committee and its sub-committees, and an increase in the size of the Standards Committee.

The appointments of councillors to various political positions, including Chairs and Vice-Chairs of committees, were confirmed. Notable appointments include Councillor Martin Klute as Chair of the Planning Committee and Councillor Troy Gallagher as Chair of the Audit and Risk Committee.

Appointment of Section 151 Officer

Paul Clarke was formally appointed as the permanent Chief Finance Officer/Section 151 Officer, fulfilling the council's legal requirement to have an officer responsible for the proper administration of its financial affairs.

Appointment of Independent Panel Members

Appointments were made to Independent Admission Appeal Panels and Independent Review Panels. These panels will consider appeals against school admissions decisions and review decisions about school exclusions, respectively.

Appointment of Representatives to Outside Organisations

The council agreed to the appointment of councillors to various outside organisations for the municipal year 2026/27. These appointments include representation on bodies such as the London Councils Forums, the Local Government Association, and the North London Waste Authority.

Vote of Thanks to Outgoing Mayor

A vote of thanks was given to the outgoing Mayor, Councillor Jason Jackson, for his service over the past year. Councillors praised his dedication, compassion, and the wide range of engagements he undertook across the borough. Councillor Jackson reflected on his year as Mayor, highlighting the importance of community, diversity, and ensuring everyone feels heard and belongs in Islington. He expressed his continued commitment to serving the borough.