UK Green Party leader proposes rule changes following Zionism motion

Zack Polanski, leader of the UK Green Party, has proposed an overhaul of the party’s democratic mechanisms to grant leadership more control over strategic direction. This proposal follows a divisive annual conference vote on October 4, where members passed a motion defining Zionism as a form of racism.

Green MP Ellie Chowns criticized the current policy-making process, noting that the motion was passed by only 0.4% of the membership. She described the policy as “significant and damaging” and expressed a desire to ensure the party is not “vulnerable to capture by extremists and racists.” Former leader Caroline Lucas also suggested the possibility of “entryism,” where activists may have joined the party specifically to influence this motion.

Polanski addressed criticisms regarding his absence during the vote, stating his priority was campaigning in the Holborn and St Pancras by-election. While he expressed agreement with the broad substance of the motion, he noted disagreement with elements regarding the future shape of states in Israel and Palestine. The Green Party lost the Holborn and St Pancras seat to the Labour Party during the recent by-election.