KL NEWS NETWORK
SRINAGAR
Retired Kashmir orthopedic surgeon, Dr Altaf Hussain, was sworn in to the Senedd as the newest Assembly Member. He represents South Wales West in the assembly.
Dr Hussain became Tory AM for South Wales West following the election of Byron Davies as MP for Gower. He is the second Muslim member of the Assembly after Mohammad Asghar, who is also a Conservative, a Wales (UK) online network reported.
As Davies was a regional AM, there is no need for a by-election as the next person on the party list is automatically offered a post after any resignation. The Wales assembly goes to polls in 2016.
The Srinagar born doctor has worked in the NHS for 25 years before he retired as a consultant orthopaedic surgeon in July 2009.
“I am honoured to be serving South Wales West as an Assembly Member and I am committed to continuing the determined work of my predecessor,” Dr Altaf was quoted saying. “My main priority is to ensure improvements to the NHS.”
Dr Altaf took his oath stood alongside the clerk and chief executive of the Assembly, Claire Clancy.
Dr Altaf’s entry into the assembly of a British province has excited his friends in Srinagar. Facebook comment of one of his friends reads:”Congratulations Dr Altaf for achieving this feat. But don’t forget that You are duty bound to raise the Voice of Oppressed & suppressed Kashmiris at every available forum and put your efforts in facilitating a peaceful solution to Kashmir issue.”
