Ahmed Aboutaleb has announced his decision to step down as the Mayor of Rotterdam this autumn after an extensive tenure of 15 years. Aboutaleb, now 62, assumed the role of mayor in

2009, transitioning from his prior roles as junior social affairs minister and city executive in Amsterdam.

"After dedicating over 15 years to our remarkable city, I believe it's time to pave the way for a new mayor," Aboutaleb expressed in a letter addressed to city councillors.

Deliberating on his decision, Aboutaleb ensured that the timing would allow ample opportunity for officials to identify and appoint a successor ahead of the 2026 local council elections.

While the precise date of his departure is yet to be confirmed, Aboutaleb affirmed his commitment to continue serving the city until his final day in office.

In 2021, Aboutaleb received the prestigious 2021 World Mayor Award from the London-based think-tank City Mayors Foundation for his commitment to embracing all citizens as 'Rotterdammers,' regardless of their origins or backgrounds.

The jury lauded Aboutaleb's display of 'courage, patience, and humility,' citing his exceptional leadership, notably during the pandemic, where he demonstrated acute awareness of the societal vulnerabilities present among certain groups.

A member of the Labour party and an immigrant to the Netherlands at the age of 15, Aboutaleb made history as the first Muslim mayor appointed in a major city in Western Europe upon assuming office in 2009.

In the Netherlands, mayors are officially appointed by the crown based on recommendations from the council executive.

Aboutaleb delivered his traditional New Year speech to the city council on Tuesday afternoon, emphasizing the importance of valuing and respecting every citizen. "The key to connection lies in cherishing one another," he asserted. "Always speak positively of your fellow citizens. The world belongs to those who are committed to serving humanity with trust, goodwill, and positive intentions." Photo by G.Lanting, Wikimedia commons.