Councillor Chewe Munkonge is set to become the next Lord Mayor of Oxford, marking a historic moment as the first Black person to hold the role.
The appointment was announced by Council Leader Susan Brown at a full council meeting on 23 March, with Councillor Louise Upton named as Deputy Lord Mayor and Councillor Linda Smith as Sheriff for the 2026/27 civic year.
The appointments are subject to re-election in May.
A historic appointment
If confirmed, Councillor Munkonge will take on one of Oxford’s most visible civic roles, representing the city at more than 300 engagements each year.
These range from major events such as Remembrance Sunday and royal visits to school visits, community meetings and charity fundraising activities.
In a statement, Councillor Munkonge said he was honoured by the appointment.
He said:
“I am deeply humbled and truly honoured to be chosen as the next Lord Mayor of Oxford.
“As the first Black Lord Mayor of our city, I stand on the shoulders of those who paved the way, and I hope to be a source of inspiration for future generations.”
Background and career
Councillor Munkonge grew up in Zambia and moved to the UK in 2003, later settling in Oxford in 2008.
He holds an MBA from Oxford Brookes University and works as a Central Admin Officer for an Oxford-based charity.
First elected to Oxford City Council in 2014, he represents Quarry and Risinghurst ward and currently serves as Cabinet Member for a Healthy, Fairer Oxford as well as the council’s Small Business Champion.
He has also been involved in education locally, serving as a governor at The Swan School between 2019 and 2025.
Civic year and charities
During his term, Councillor Munkonge will support a wide range of community groups and organisations across the city.
He has chosen Sobell House and St Theresa’s as his Lord Mayor’s charities for 2026/27.
Mayor making ceremony
The formal handover will take place at the traditional mayor making ceremony at Oxford Town Hall in May.
The event will see outgoing Lord Mayor Louise Upton step down and pass the chains of office to Councillor Munkonge.
The ceremony will conclude with the ringing of the Carfax Tower bells, a long-standing Oxford tradition marking the start of a new civic year.
A role with deep history
Oxford’s mayoralty dates back more than 800 years, with the first recorded Mayor, Laurence Kepeharme, serving between 1205 and 1209.
The title of Lord Mayor was granted to the city in 1962 by Queen Elizabeth II, recognising Oxford’s historic importance.
Looking ahead
Councillor Munkonge said he is looking forward to representing the city and working with communities across Oxford.
He said:
“I look forward to championing our communities, supporting local charities, and representing Oxford with dedication, integrity and pride throughout the coming year.”
