British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has appointed Shabana Mahmood as the United Kingdom’s new Home Secretary. Mahmood, a lawmaker of Pakistani descent, steps into one of the country’s most powerful offices during a major cabinet reshuffle.
Her appointment followed the resignation of Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner. At just 44, Shabana Mahmood now holds the distinction of being the most senior Muslim in British politics. This marks a historic moment in the nation’s political landscape.
Mahmood’s career began as a barrister. Since 2010, she has served as a Member of Parliament, taking on several shadow portfolios over the years. In recent months, she worked as justice minister in Starmer’s team. Importantly, Shabana Mahmood refused to serve under Jeremy Corbyn when he led Labour, reflecting her independent political approach.
Cabinet shake-up after Rayner’s resignation
The reshuffle came after Angela Rayner stepped down. Britain’s independent adviser had ruled that she breached the ministerial code by not paying the correct tax. Her departure forced Starmer into a broader reshuffle than anticipated. It also gave him an opportunity to reassert control after a week of political turbulence.
Along with Shabana Mahmood’s appointment at the Home Office, other key changes were made. Yvette Cooper, who previously held the Home Office brief, became foreign minister. David Lammy was elevated to deputy prime minister and justice secretary.
A Labour lawmaker admitted that Rayner was “a big beast and hard to replace.” Yet, the three appointments were described as “sound” and steady, even if not dramatic.
Loyal allies and a new direction
Starmer turned to what he called his “loyal friends” to stabilize his government. Just a week earlier, he reshaped his Downing Street team to strengthen the economic advisory unit. The addition of Shabana Mahmood as Home Secretary signals a new path for the Home Office. It also strengthens representation at the highest levels of government.
With this reshuffle, Keir Starmer aims to rebuild authority, calm political unrest, and show a fresh direction for his leadership. For Shabana Mahmood, the new role is both a personal milestone and a national landmark.