Cllr Jehangir Haque
Surrey
The UK.
Former Mayor Of Molevalley
District Council &
Vice-President of BBCCI.
Councillor Jehangir Haque, affectionately known as Raj, is a dedicated and well-respected figure in the communities of Bookham and Fetcham, Surrey, within the United Kingdom. With a residency spanning over four decades in this picturesque region, Raj has not only witnessed the growth and changes in these towns but has actively contributed to their well-being. Beyond being the proprietor of a beloved restaurant in Fetcham, Raj has transitioned seamlessly into a role as a committed local politician, embodying the spirit of community service.
Born in 1957, Jehangir Haque ventured to England in 1971 in search of a brighter future and the promise of opportunities. It was in December 1979 that he chose Bookham as his home, setting the stage for a remarkable journey of community engagement and public service.
Raj’s initial foray into the entrepreneurial world led him to establish a popular restaurant in Fetcham. This venture not only satisfied the culinary cravings of locals but also provided Raj with an invaluable platform to observe and understand the concerns and aspirations of the people he served. His restaurant became a hub where diverse segments of the community converged, offering Raj unique insights into the challenges and hopes of the community.
In 2010, Raj made a significant shift in his life, transitioning from a successful restaurateur to an elected councillor for the Mole Valley District Council. This shift was underpinned by his genuine desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of his community members. His decision to enter the realm of public service was marked by the same determination and dedication that had propelled his restaurant to success.
Throughout his tenure, Raj has labored diligently to address the issues facing his constituents in Fetcham and the broader Mole Valley region. He firmly believes in the power of collaboration, working hand in hand with fellow councillors and residents to bring about positive change. Whether it was providing unwavering support to key workers during the trying times of the COVID-19 pandemic, offering assistance during the floods of 2013/14, or actively engaging in various charitable endeavors, Raj has consistently demonstrated his unwavering commitment to helping those in need.
Among Raj’s proudest accomplishments are his successful advocacy for the repair of Cock Lane, the implementation of a 20-mph speed limit zone around Fetcham’s schools to enhance safety, and his instrumental role in saving Fetcham’s Molebridge surgery from closure. These achievements are emblematic of his dedication and his ability to rally resources for the betterment of his community. It is his empathetic and action-oriented approach that has earned him the trust and admiration of the people he represents.
However, a significant portion of Raj’s responsibilities involves addressing issues related to the perceived shortcomings of Surrey County Council. He shares the frustrations of his constituents regarding the state of Surrey’s crumbling roads and infrastructure, the sluggish progress in replacing the Bookham Youth Centre, which was shuttered by Surrey County Council in 2019, and the insufficiencies in supporting local schools, including the provision for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Raj firmly believes that the residents of Surrey deserve more effective governance and is resolute in his commitment to advocating for improvements.
Another vital aspect of Raj’s political agenda is his dedication to combatting climate change and safeguarding the environment. As a member of the Mole Valley Development Management Committee, he has played a crucial role in preserving the Green Belt from inappropriate development. Raj’s vision extends beyond the local level, as he now seeks to address broader issues affecting Surrey, such as promoting active travel, rectifying the inadequacies in public transport, and enhancing the energy efficiency of Surrey’s services and buildings. His commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices underscores his forward-thinking approach to governance.
Raj’s personal life is anchored in strong family bonds. He is a married man and has raised two grown children, instilling in them the values of community service and compassion that he holds dear. Additionally, his leadership qualities were evident when he served as the Chairman of the Council for the Mole Valley District Council during the 2018–2019 term, further emphasizing his influence and dedication to the community.
Finally, it should be noted that Councillor Jehangir Haque, or Raj as he is affectionately called, is a committed and passionate defender of the interests of the residents of Bookham, Fetcham, and the greater Mole Valley area. His inspiring journey from an immigrant looking for a better future to a thriving restaurateur and finally a dedicated local politician illustrates his persistent commitment to improving the lives of those around him. Raj has earned the confidence and trust of his people by his compassionate and proactive style as well as his commitment to resolving urgent issues, making him a priceless resource for the neighborhood he represents. It is clear that Raj’s commitment to his community and his hope for a better future remain unwavering as he progresses in his career in public service.
