In a significant milestone for Canada’s federal politics, Doly Begum, a politician of Bangladeshi origin, has been officially sworn in as a Member of Parliament (MP).
Begum secured her seat in the federal Parliament following a by-election victory in the Scarborough Southwest riding. Running as a candidate for the Liberal Party of Canada, her win strengthens the parliamentary position of the government under Prime Minister Mark Carney, report Canadian media.
In a statement released on social media after the ceremony, Begum described the appointment as an “honour and a privilege.”
She pledged her commitment to representing the people of her constituency and contributing to the development of national policies.
Her stated priorities for her term include addressing the concerns of her community, enhancing affordability, securing accessible housing, and striving for a more prosperous and inclusive Canada.
Begum is a veteran of the Scarborough political landscape, having been actively involved in community work for several years.
Before her transition to federal politics, she served three terms as a Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) in Ontario.
She was originally elected to the provincial legislature in 2018 and again in 2022 as a representative of the New Democratic Party.
Born in Moulvibazar, Bangladesh, Begum moved to Canada at the age of 12. She holds an undergraduate degree in political science from the University of Toronto and a master’s degree in development administration and planning from University College London.
This swearing-in marks the beginning of a new chapter in her career, as she focuses on her federal responsibilities and the advancement of public policy.
