Waseem Butt, a German of Pakistani descent, has been appointed as the first Muslim legislative leader of the Heidelberg Parliament.
On July 24, 2024, the newly established parliamentary group HiB/Volt held an election, during which Butt selected Andreas Gottschalk as his deputy.
Butt brings over a decade of experience as a municipal councilor to this new role. His extensive expertise and proven leadership were pivotal in his selection as the head of the HiB/Volt group. The appointment of Gottschalk as deputy underscores the group’s commitment to collaborative leadership.
Butt’s election is seen as a significant move towards unity and equal opportunity. His appointment not only celebrates his professional achievements but also symbolizes progress in overcoming barriers related to gender, age, ethnicity, religion, and ideology.
In his inaugural speech, Butt voiced heartfelt gratitude to his fellow candidates and voters, noting that 280,000 votes were cast in support of him and his party. He pledged to advance Heidelberg’s goals and ensure that his leadership brings tangible benefits to the community.
