Iqbal Mohamed: Independent Voice for Dewsbury and Batley

Iqbal Mohamed is a British independent politician, engineer, and IT consultant who became the Member of Parliament for Dewsbury and Batley in 2024. Known for his strong pro-Palestine stance, Mohamed defeated Labour candidate Heather Iqbal in a historic win that made him one of the few independent MPs in modern British politics. With his background in engineering and technology consultancy, he brings both professional expertise and grassroots activism to Parliament, focusing on issues such as healthcare, cost of living, and international justice.

Early Life and Background

Iqbal Hussain Mohamed was born in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, in either 1970 or 1971, which makes Iqbal Mohamed’s age around 53 or 54 years as of 2025. His parents were of Indian Muslim heritage, with family roots in Bharuch, Gujarat. Growing up in a working-class community in Dewsbury, he experienced firsthand the struggles of ordinary families, which shaped his empathy and connection with local residents.

He attended Westborough High School, followed by Huddersfield New College, before pursuing higher education at Durham University, where he studied applied physics and electronics. This technical foundation led him into a successful career in engineering and IT consultancy before entering the political arena.

Education and Professional Career

Iqbal Mohamed’s professional path is rooted in science and technology. After completing his BSc in Applied Physics and Electronics, he initially worked in manufacturing and electrical engineering. His curiosity and analytical mind pushed him towards consulting, where he built a career as a business and IT consultant.

For years, he helped companies optimize their systems and adopt modern technologies. This background in problem-solving and efficiency has influenced his approach as a politician, where he applies logical analysis and technical understanding to real-world social and economic challenges.

Entry into Politics

Unlike many politicians who begin within a party structure, Mohamed’s political rise was community-driven. Although he once supported Labour, his growing frustration with the party’s stance on international conflicts, particularly its response to the Israel-Palestine crisis, led him to stand independently.

In early 2024, various community groups in Dewsbury and Batley encouraged him to run as a unity candidate. This effort was intended to prevent a split in the pro-Palestine vote, ensuring a strong challenge against Labour’s dominance in the constituency.

2024 General Election Victory

The 2024 UK General Election proved to be a turning point for Iqbal Mohamed. Running as an independent, he defeated Heather Iqbal, Labour’s candidate, by a margin of nearly 7,000 votes. His victory was remarkable not only for the scale but also because it marked the first time since 1907 that a Yorkshire seat was won by an independent candidate.

His campaign resonated strongly with constituents who wanted an authentic voice in Parliament—someone not bound by party discipline but committed to representing community concerns.

Parliamentary Career and Policies

Since taking office, Iqbal Mohamed has built a reputation as a principled and outspoken MP. His parliamentary priorities include:

Palestine and foreign policy – Advocating for a ceasefire and recognition of Palestinian rights.

Cost of living – Supporting measures to reduce financial pressures on working-class families.

NHS and healthcare – Calling for increased funding and better access to services.

Local regeneration – Pushing for economic development, job creation, and safer communities.

Social justice – Campaigning against policies that disproportionately impact marginalized groups.

He also co-founded the Independent Alliance, a group formed in 2024 alongside other independents such as Jeremy Corbyn. This alliance allows independents to coordinate on issues while maintaining their autonomy.

Iqbal Mohamed Age

Born around 1970–1971, Iqbal Mohamed is currently in his early to mid-fifties. His life experiences across education, work, and activism give him both maturity and relatability. His age reflects a blend of youthful energy and seasoned wisdom—qualities that appeal to his diverse voter base.

Iqbal Mohamed Family

Family values play an important role in Iqbal Mohamed’s public identity. While he keeps much of his private life away from the spotlight, it is known that he comes from a close-knit Muslim family with Indian roots. His upbringing in Dewsbury’s multicultural environment gave him a strong sense of community and shaped his emphasis on inclusivity and fairness.

As a public servant, he often speaks about wanting a better future not only for his constituents but also for the next generation, reflecting his family-oriented outlook.

Iqbal Mohamed Net Worth

While Iqbal Mohamed’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, his career as an engineer, IT consultant, and later a Member of Parliament suggests financial stability. Unlike many career politicians, Mohamed built his wealth through private-sector work before entering politics.

It is worth noting that as a UK MP, he earns a parliamentary salary of approximately £91,000 per year, in addition to standard allowances for office and staff expenses. However, his decision to campaign as an independent rather than under a major party highlights that financial gain is not his primary motivation.

Iqbal Mohamed Wikipedia

For those seeking quick facts, Iqbal Mohamed’s Wikipedia page provides a concise overview of his biography, early life, political career, and electoral success. It highlights his professional background, his pro-Palestine campaign platform, and his victory over Labour in the Dewsbury and Batley constituency.

While Wikipedia offers a summary, a deeper exploration of his journey reveals a man motivated by community service, international justice, and a commitment to independent politics.

Public Image and Controversies

Iqbal Mohamed’s rise to Parliament has not been without challenges. During the 2024 election campaign, some of his supporters were accused of aggressive tactics, though he denied direct involvement and reaffirmed his commitment to civility.

Additionally, his outspoken pro-Palestine views have occasionally placed him at odds with mainstream British politics. However, his supporters argue that his independence allows him to voice concerns that larger parties often avoid.

Contributions to Dewsbury and Batley

As MP, Mohamed has emphasized grassroots issues:

Securing funding for local infrastructure.

Supporting schools and youth programs.

Advocating for cultural inclusivity and interfaith dialogue.

Addressing concerns around safety, housing, and employment.

His approach combines local engagement with global awareness, reflecting the diverse identity of Dewsbury and Batley.

Legacy and Future Prospects

Iqbal Mohamed represents a shift in British politics, where independents can succeed against major parties by building trust at the community level. His victory has inspired other grassroots movements across the UK, particularly in constituencies with large Muslim or pro-justice electorates.

Looking ahead, his legacy will depend on how effectively he balances constituency needs with national and international advocacy. If he continues to deliver results, he could pave the way for more independents to reshape Britain’s political landscape.

Conclusion

Iqbal Mohamed’s journey from engineer and IT consultant to Member of Parliament is a story of resilience, conviction, and community spirit. His victory in Dewsbury and Batley in 2024 sent a strong message: people are ready to support independent voices when they feel traditional parties no longer represent them.

With a focus on pro-Palestine advocacy, social justice, and local development, Mohamed has already established himself as a distinctive figure in British politics. Whether through his parliamentary work or grassroots engagement, his career continues to evolve—making him a name to watch in the years ahead.