Naheed Nenshi: Calgary’s 36th mayor

Naheed Nenshi will be sworn in as Calgary’s 36th mayor tonight. The city council swearing-in ceremony will be on live webcast and ShawTV starting at 7pm.

Here are three interesting articles about Naheed and his campaign,

– Calgary’s 36th mayor fulfils parents’ dream – Family sought better life for kids in Canada, Calgary Herald

– New mayor celebrates Calgary’s ‘crazy mix’, by Don Braid, Calgary Herald

– How Naheed Nenshi won Calgary’s race for mayor, Calgary Herald

Update:

– Call him Mayor: Naheed Nenshi, new council sworn into office (with video) (emphasis added) Calgary Herald, 11:03pm Oct, 25, 2010,

“As he received claps, hoots and hollers normally reserved for rock stars, Naheed Kurban Nenshi told a City Hall atrium full of purple-clad supporters: “We cannot let you down.”

After a winning campaign of promises to build an airport tunnel and a southeast LRT, improve snow removal and shred bureaucratic red tape, he offered Calgarians a further pledge:

“This council will be more open,” he said, the mayor’s chain around his neck and the city’s 14 alderman at his side.

“We’ll make it easier for you to engage in our conversation. We’ll better understand your needs and your priorities and we’ll act on them. We’ll listen. We’ll get beyond division and individualism to work together for the best interests of all Calgarians. And we’ll do it every single day.”

He marvelled at the election’s high voter turnout and public conversation, and challenged Calgarians to keep doing their part.

“You have to do your part. Hold us to account,” he said.

“Tell us when we’re devolving into the politics as usual. Tell us when our priorities are not your priorities.”

“Get engaged and stay engaged,” he said, exhorting people to join community associations and other groups.”