Zarah Sultana (born October 31, 1993) is a British politician and Member of Parliament (MP) for Coventry South. Known for her progressive stance on social justice, workers’ rights, and international human rights, Sultana represents a new generation of political leadership in the UK. In July 2025, she co-founded a new political party with former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn, signaling a pivotal shift in her political career.
Quick Facts of Zarah Sultana
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zarah Sultana |
| Date of Birth | October 31, 1993 |
| Place of Birth | Birmingham, United Kingdom |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation | Politician, MP |
| Relationship Status | Not publicly disclosed |
| Net Worth | Estimated £300,000–£500,000 |
| Major Achievements | MP for Coventry South (2019–present), Co-founder of new political party with Jeremy Corbyn |
Early Life and Family Background
Zarah Sultana was born into a Muslim family of Pakistani descent in Birmingham. Her grandfather migrated from Thub in Dadyal Tehsil, Mirpur District of Azad Kashmir, to the UK in the 1960s. Raised in the Lozells area with three sisters, Sultana’s working-class upbringing profoundly shaped her political outlook.
She attended Holte School and King Edward VI Handsworth Grammar School for sixth form. At 17, a visit to the West Bank and Jerusalem, where she observed a military court trial, deepened her commitment to human rights and social justice.
Sultana studied International Relations and Economics at the University of Birmingham. In 2011, she joined the Labour Party, motivated by opposition to the tripling of university tuition fees. Her activism during university led to positions on the National Executive Councils of both Young Labour and the National Union of Students. She later served as Parliamentary Officer for Muslim Engagement and Development in 2018.
Career Beginnings and Key Milestones
Before Parliament, Sultana worked in retail and the third sector, organizing campaigns to protect public services. This grassroots experience formed the foundation for her political career.
In October 2019, she was selected as the Labour candidate for Coventry South following the retirement of Jim Cunningham. With support from unions including Unite, Momentum UK, and the Fire Brigades Union, she won the seat in the December 2019 general election by a narrow majority of 401 votes, becoming one of the youngest MPs at age 26.
Notable Works and Achievements
Sultana is known for her vocal support of progressive policies, including:
- Abolishing the two-child benefit cap
- Opposing cuts to winter fuel payments for pensioners
She was a member and later chairperson (2020–2025) of the Socialist Campaign Group. In July 2024, she was suspended from the Labour Party after voting against government welfare reforms, sitting as an independent MP until her departure in July 2025 to co-found a new political party with Jeremy Corbyn. The party aims to tackle poverty, inequality, and promote a peace-oriented foreign policy.
Current Relevance and Recent Updates
Sultana’s co-founding of a new political party with Jeremy Corbyn marks a defining moment in her career, seeking to unite independent MPs, campaigners, and activists. Her activism and leadership position her as a prominent voice for progressive politics in the UK.
Personal Life
Sultana maintains a private personal life, with no publicly disclosed details about her relationships. She continues to focus on political work and advocacy.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Her estimated net worth is between £300,000 and £500,000, derived from her MP salary, book deals, and speaking engagements. Sultana maintains a modest lifestyle consistent with her working-class roots and resides in the Coventry South constituency she represents.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Social Media Influence: Most followed British politician on TikTok with over 450,000 followers.
- Challenges: Most abused MP online in 2023, receiving 68% more abuse than the next targeted MP.
- Early Activism: Served on the National Executive of the National Union of Students and worked with Muslim Engagement and Development.
Charitable Work and Legacy
Sultana has consistently championed social justice, including advocating for free education, opposing austerity, and supporting Palestinian rights. Her activism extends to grassroots movements and community organizations, making her a prominent voice for systemic change.
Future Plans and Cultural Impact
Looking ahead, Sultana aims to build a political movement outside traditional party lines, focusing on poverty, inequality, and social justice. Her collaboration with Jeremy Corbyn in forming a new political party is expected to expand her influence, shaping the future of left-wing politics in the UK.
