A former London city councillor has resigned from a key hospital advisory role following the announcement of serious criminal charges against her, including extortion. Sources have identified the complainant in the case as London Mayor Josh Morgan, her former colleague on city council.
Charges and Immediate Resignation
Mariam Hamou, who represented Ward 6 from 2021 to 2022, is facing charges of extortion and harassing communications, as confirmed by St. Thomas police last Thursday. In response, Hamou has voluntarily stepped down from her position on the London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) Community Advisory Committee (CAC).
"I just resigned," Hamou stated in a phone interview on Monday. "I don't want to bring any negativity or anything toward LHSC while I'm under investigation, that's all." She explained that she notified LHSC supervisor David Musyj of her decision within hours of learning about the charges.
Mayor Josh Morgan Identified as Complainant
Multiple sources with knowledge of the investigation have told The London Free Press that the individual who filed the police complaint is Mayor Josh Morgan. Morgan served as the Ward 7 councillor during the period Hamou represented the adjacent Ward 6. The sources requested anonymity as they are not authorized to speak publicly on the matter.
St. Thomas police handled the investigation, citing a need to avoid a potential "institutional conflict of interest," which suggests the involvement of individuals connected to the London Police Service.
Background and Political History
Hamou, a school librarian with the London District Catholic school board, entered municipal politics in November 2021. She was appointed to council to fill the Ward 6 vacancy left by Phil Squire. Notably, Josh Morgan, then a councillor, was among those who voted in favour of her appointment.
Her time in elected office was short-lived. Hamou was defeated in the 2022 municipal election, losing one of the city's closest races to Sam Trosow, who earned 2,082 votes against her 1,783.
LHSC acknowledged the situation in a statement, confirming a CAC member had "chosen to step aside at this time" and expressing appreciation for her past contributions. The hospital described the committee's role as providing "valuable input and guidance" to its leadership team.
The case presents a significant development in London's political landscape, involving two figures who were once council allies. The charges have not been proven in court.
