A new leader for Bracknell Forest Council is expected to be chosen at a meeting tomorrow night (March 25) after former teacher and environmental campaigner Mary Temperton was forced to resign in early March.
Senior councillors were suspended by the Labour party after raising money for their friend, the former mayor Naheed Ejaz, who was convicted of perverting the course of justice at Winchester Crown Court. Her son, the former Bracknell taxi driver and mayor's consort Diwan Khan, was convicted at the same time of raping a 15-year-old girl. The pair are due to be sentenced on April 30.
In the meantime Labour's deputy leader, Helen Purnell, has taken control of Bracknell Forest and refocused the council's priorities on protecting women and girls. The Labour Group's decision on a new leader and deputy is imminent.
Cllr Purnell is the favourite to become leader, with Cllr Guy Gilbe among those expected to stand for deputy. A special council meeting on Wednesday, March 25, will confirm the leader and deputy leader of the council.
Ted O'Neill, Local Democracy Reporter
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