Zack Polanski loses UK by-election bid for Green Party
Zack Polanski, leader of England and Wales's Green Party, lost a by-election to Labour's Sagal Abdi-Wali.
Zack Polanski is leader of England and Wales's fast-growing Green Party. He failed to win the Holborn and St Pancras seat in Thursday's by-election.
Labour candidate Sagal Abdi-Wali won with 45 per cent of the vote. Polanski received just under 33 per cent.
Abdi-Wali leads Camden Council. She came to Britain as a child refugee from Somalia.
She emphasised belonging in her victory speech. Polanski now faces questions about his future as leader.
He cannot lead from outside the House of Commons. His campaign was hurt by the Green Party's October decision to declare Zionism a form of racism.
This has divided the party and drawn criticism from most elected Green MPs. Israel barred Polanski from entering the country over the motion.
Polanski said he would not have voted for it but agreed with it in substance. He faces a leadership vote in 2027.
- 45%
- Abdi-Wali's vote share
- just under 33%
- Polanski's vote share
- Keir Starmer
- Seat vacated by
- 2027
- Leadership vote scheduled
Why it mattersThe Green Party's rapid growth and leadership stability depend on shifting perceptions and internal unity, especially amid the party's controversial stance on Israel.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect, though Australian Greens watch UK counterparts' progress and policy development for possible lessons.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 1 h ago
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