The City of Parramatta Council in Sydney, New South Wales has elected Councilor Samir Pandey as its new Lord Mayor.

CR Pandey, representing the Parramatta ward, is the city’s first Lord Mayor of Indian origin. He was first elected to the City of Parramatta Council in September 2017, and was elected as Deputy Lord Mayor in January 2022.

CR Pandey, who has an IT background, has a lot of work on his hands, especially major projects like the Aquatic Centre, Town Hall and Riverside Theater redevelopment.

In a statement, CR Pandey said it is a privilege to lead the council of one of the fastest growing centers in Australia.

CR Donna Davies MP stepped down from the role following her election as the State Member for Parramatta. She will remain as a councilor until the next local government election in September 2024.

NSW law allows a councilor who is elected to parliament to remain on the council until their term expires, or for two years, whichever is less. A new Deputy Lord Mayor will be elected at the next council meeting in June.