By Taiwo AKINLAMI

Ajmeri Hoque has made history as the first Muslim judge in Ohio, elected to the Franklin County Municipal Court. Her victory marks a milestone in representation and civic inclusion for Ohio’s growing immigrant and faith communities.

The ceremonial swearing in will be held on Saturday, December 6, 2025 followed by reception at the Boat House from 12 PM – 1 PM.

Born in Bangladesh, Hoque immigrated to the United States as a child and grew up in central Ohio. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Political Science from The Ohio State University in 2006 and her law degree from Capital University Law School in 2010.

Before running for the bench, Hoque built a legal career defending clients in criminal and juvenile courts and advocating for children and families as a Guardian ad Litem.

Throughout her career, she has also engaged in community service, serving on nonprofit boards, including Pint Size Protesters, a grassroots organization supporting youth civic engagement.

Hoque ran unopposed in the 2025 election and will assume office in January 2026. Her election adds a new dimension to the county’s judiciary and continues a national trend of expanding diversity in the U.S. legal system.

While some outlets have reported that she is the first naturalized citizen to serve on the Franklin County Municipal Court , official court sources have not issued a statement on that specific distinction.

In interviews, Hoque has often credited her immigrant roots for shaping her sense of fairness and empathy. Living in Dublin, Ohio, with her husband and daughter, she hopes her story inspires other women, immigrants, and young people to “dream boldly and lead with purpose.”

Her journey from Bangladesh to the bench embodies resilience, education, and faith in democratic opportunity, values that continue to shape the evolving face of justice in Ohio.

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