Sir Sadiq Khan and Local MP Join Tributes to Greenford Councillor
Shock follows sudden death of Dr Aysha Raza
Dr Aysha Raza with Sir Sadiq Khan
February 19, 2026
Tributes have been pouring in from across Ealing and London following the sudden death of Dr Aysha Raza, a long-serving Greenford councillor, NHS campaigner and respected community advocate.
Dr Raza, who represented Central Greenford for more than a decade, was widely admired for her dedication to public service, her compassion for residents and her tireless work to improve health and equality across the borough.
James Murray, MP for Ealing North, said he was “deeply shocked and saddened” by the news, describing Dr Raza as a friend, colleague and a constant source of energy in the community.
“Aysha was tirelessly dedicated to the community in Greenford, where she was a councillor for 12 years,” he said. “From helping individual residents with any issues they faced, to taking part in the Holy Cross pantomime at the British Legion, to supporting the reintroduction of beavers at Horsenden Hill, she will be sorely missed by countless people and local groups.”
He recalled campaigning with her only days earlier. “Just last weekend we were out together in Northolt West End, knocking on doors for her council colleagues there,” he said. “We will miss her very much.”
A London’s Mayor, Sadiq Khan, also paid tribute, describing Dr Raza as a “respected neuroscientist and passionate defender of the NHS” whose commitment to fairness and social justice shaped her life’s work.
“There are no words to fully express my shock and deep sadness at the sudden passing of Dr Aysha Raza,” he said. “Aysha was a dear and loyal friend who worked relentlessly, not only for her beloved community in Ealing, where she served as a councillor for over a decade, but for social justice everywhere.”
He added that she was “Ealing Council’s first ever Muslim woman Cabinet Member” and praised her “amazing sense of humour and a moral compass that made me proud to call her a friend, an adviser and an ally.”
“My heartfelt condolences go out to her mum, family, friends and to everyone who had the privilege of knowing her,” he said. “She will be deeply missed, but her legacy will continue to inspire us all.”
A photo of the councillor next to the Condolence Book at Perceval House. Picture: Ealing Council
Ealing Council leader Councillor Peter Mason added, “The news of Councillor Aysha Raza’s passing last night is incredibly saddening and our hearts go out to her family who are grieving her loss.
“Aysha was a diligent and steadfast campaigner who worked tirelessly for her community in Greenford. She will be remembered for the energy and enthusiasm she brought to campaigns not only our borough but beyond. She will be deeply missed by her Labour Group colleagues and across Ealing.”
Dr Raza served on several key council committees, including health scrutiny and planning, and was known for her strong advocacy for the NHS and for tackling health inequalities. She was also a trustee of the Young Ealing Foundation and a supporter of local youth groups, Scouts and Police Cadets.
Born and raised in Greenford, she attended Oldfield and Coston primary schools and remained deeply rooted in the area throughout her life. Colleagues often spoke of her ability to connect with residents from all backgrounds, her warmth, and her willingness to help anyone who needed support.
Across the borough, community groups, councillors and residents have been sharing memories of Dr Raza’s kindness, humour and unwavering commitment to public service.
Many have highlighted her role as a mentor to younger activists and her determination to ensure that local voices—particularly those often unheard—were represented in decision-making.
A book of condolence can be signed between 9am and 7pm in the lobby of Perceval House, 14-16 Uxbridge Road, Ealing, W5 2HL.
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