EASTON, Pa. — A former Northampton County controller candidate is throwing his hat back into the political ring, this time with an eye on Northampton County Council.
Nadeem Qayyum, the husband of Easton City Councilwoman Taiba Sultana, announced Tuesday night he will run for county council.
"Together, we can address the challenges we face, celebrate our strengths, and build a future that works for everyone."Northampton County Council candidate Nadeem Qayyum
"I believe in the power of community," Qayyum said in a statement. "Every resident deserves a voice, and I am committed to ensuring that our collective needs and aspirations are not only heard but acted upon.
"Together, we can address the challenges we face, celebrate our strengths, and build a future that works for everyone."
Qayyum ran for Northampton County controller in 2023 but lost by 20 percentage points to Tara Zrinski in the Democratic primary.
Qayyum, who said he is self-employed with a master's degree in administration, said in an email he would focus on government transparency, economic growth and environmental sustainability if elected.
Embroiled in accusations
Qayyum will seek one of five at-large seats on the nine-member council on the ballot in 2025. Democrats Jeffrey Corpora, Ron Heckman and Lori Vargo Heffner and Republicans John Brown and John Goffredo will see their terms end next year.
Qayyum was embroiled in accusations of election fraud this year. Sultana challenged longtime incumbent Bob Freeman for Pennsylvania's 136th House, but her candidate petition included hundreds of problematic signatures.
Several pages appeared to be photocopies, which are not acceptable under state law.
In addition, someone appeared to forge the signature of state Sen. Lisa Boscola, D-Northampton. Boscola, a longtime political force in the region known for bucking the party line, does not live in the district and reported the matter to the Northampton County District Attorney's office.
The page bearing the forged signature was affirmed by Qayyum. No criminal charges were ever filed over the matter.
