In a noteworthy development, Fauzia Janjua, a Pakistani-American woman, has achieved the prestigious position of town mayor in New Jersey.
Originally from Chakwal, Punjab, Fauzia, accompanied by her husband and children, took the oath of office at the Township Hall, solemnizing her new role with the Holy Quran. Notably, she is the first Muslim woman of Pakistani descent to secure the position of town mayor in New Jersey. In her address during the ceremony, Fauzia expressed her election as a moment of great pride.
Carol Murphy, the New Jersey State Representative, shared her sentiments on X, stating, “It is such a great honor to administer the oaths of office tonight in Mount Laurel. It was extremely special to celebrate my dear friends — Mayor Fozia Janjua (1st Muslim & South Asian Mayor in township history) & Deputy Mayor Nik Moustakas on this historic occasion.”
Fauzia’s roots trace back to Chakwal through her father, Idris, while her mother hails from Lahore. Born in the U.S. after her father migrated in the 70s, Fauzia has chosen a path of community service, focusing on providing education to underprivileged children and prisoners.
Her election marks a significant political shift, with Democrats securing the mayoral position for the first time in 36 years, breaking the longstanding trend of Republican representatives holding the office prior to her election.
