Green Party leader Zack Polanski to remain leader after by-election loss

Green Party leader Zack Polanski has vowed to remain in his position following a defeat in the Holborn and St Pancras by-election to Labour candidate Sagal Abdi-Wali. The election result follows a period of internal turmoil for the party after members passed a controversial motion declaring Zionism to be a form of racism.

Polanski faced criticism for his absence during the debate on the motion, as he had returned to London to campaign for the by-election. He stated he would have preferred an amended version of the motion that did not attempt to determine the future political settlement of the region. Former Green Party leader Caroline Lucas criticized his lack of leadership regarding the vote, describing the motion as “dangerous” and “divisive.”

The political fallout includes calls from Prime Minister Andy Burnham to reverse the decision, which he characterized as showing “terrible judgement.” Additionally, the Wales Green Party’s deputy leader resigned in protest of the policy. Despite the loss and declining approval ratings, Polanski maintains his intention to lead the party and focus on issues such as rent controls and the climate crisis.