Bracknell Forest Council has released a statement regarding the portrait of the former mayor, Naheed Ejaz, in Time Square.
Cllr Helen Purnell, leader of the council, said:
“The portrait of the former mayor, Naheed Ejaz, has been removed from the gallery of former mayors at the council’s Time Square office.
“The photograph had remained in situ as an historic record and as her crimes were committed outside of her mayoral term and in her personal life. However, following public requests to remove it, we have taken it down. While we don’t want to change historic records, we understand the public’s concern that keeping it up is unpalatable and upsetting.
“We also understand that it could be triggering and deeply upsetting for those affected by the case.
“We have no plans to reinstate the photograph and are developing a policy to standardise our approach in future with regards to councillors convicted of crimes."
More information
Naheed Ejaz was elected in May 2023 and served as Mayor of Bracknell Forest from May 2023 to May 2024.
Ejaz stepped down from her councillor role in September 2024. A by-election was held in November 2024 for the seat.
Diwan Khan was mayoral consort for the May 2023 to May 2024 mayoral term. Our records show that he conducted no civic functions or engagements in 2024.
The council cannot comment on how political parties select their candidates for elections or the role of mayor. This is a matter for the relevant political party.
The council cannot comment on if, or when, a councillor steps down from their role. This is a matter for the individual and the relevant political party.
The council has no control over who is elected to a seat - this is a matter for the public as part of the democratic process. Likewise, the council, as an organisation, has no ability or power to remove a councillor from their seat or role.
Naheed Ejaz, 61, of Bracknell was found guilty of perverting the course of justice at Winchester Crown Court on 11 February, 2026. Diwan Khan, 41, of Bracknell, was found guilty of rape at Winchester Crown Court on 11 February, 2026.
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