First Citizenship Ceremonies in Moray Council chambers
The first of Moray’s Citizenship Ceremonies to take place in the council chambers has happened this week (Thursday 19 September).
Taking part in their Citizenship Ceremony were Chukwu Anolue, originally from Nigeria, now living in Kinloss; Salma Ralph, originally from Libya and now living in Elgin; Dehan Otto from South Africa; Stacie Whitney originally from the USA and now living in Forres; and Yana Rabago from Azerbaijan and living in Buckie.
The ceremony, conducted by the Senior Registrar for Moray, Liz Lambie, was also attended by Vice Lord-Lieutenant Nancy Robson (Moray); Deputy Lieutenant Lucy Mackenzie (Moray); and Deputy Lieutenant Kay Gauld (Banffshire).
Previous Citizenship Ceremonies have taken place at the Registrar offices at 240 High Street in Elgin, the move to the council chambers comes as the registration service prepares to move to council HQ from 11 November 2024.
Following the application process via the Home Office, Moray Council issues new citizens with their Certificate of Naturalisation after they have undertaken an Oath or Affirmation to the current monarch.
Since local authorities took on the role of providing Certificates of Naturalisation in 2014, Moray has welcomed 644 new citizens from all corners of the globe. Today’s participants were delighted to celebrate with their friends and a families in the Moray Council chambers.
Speaking at the ceremony, Cllr John Cowe, said: “I’m delighted Chukwu, Salma, Dehan, Stacey and Yana have chosen to make Moray and Banffshire their home. It’s a phenomenal place to live, work and play so we welcome them and their contributions to our communities. It was especially nice to see the council chambers host the ceremonies for the first time, giving even more significance to the occasion.”
Vice Lord-Lieutenant for Moray, Nancy Robson, added: “Today I was very honoured to be presenting our newest citizens with their certificates, a proud and happy day for them and their families. To welcome everyone on behalf of King Charles III was a special occasion, may I again congratulate them all.”
Deputy Lieutenant for Banffshire, Kay Gauld, commented: “Banffshire is honoured to be chosen as home for new residents and Yana has been part of our community for many years now. It’s lovely to see her become an official citizen after so long with us, where she is most welcome.”