LONDON, Oct 9: Britain’s governing Labour Party has won the special election in London’s Holborn and St Pancras constituency, delivering a setback to the Green Party and its leader, Zack Polanski, amid growing internal divisions over the party’s political direction.
Labour candidate Sagal Abdi Wali secured 12,292 votes, accounting for 45 per cent of the total, while Polanski finished second with 8,928 votes, receiving just under 33 per cent. The constituency became vacant following the resignation of former Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Abdi-Wali, who arrived in Britain as a child refugee from Somalia, said she was honoured to represent a constituency that had provided her with opportunities. She currently leads Camden Council, the local authority covering the area.
Speaking after the result was announced, she highlighted the importance of representation and belonging, expressing hope that her victory would inspire people from similar backgrounds to see a place for themselves in public life.
The result comes at a challenging time for the Green Party, which has expanded its support under Polanski’s leadership. His political approach, often described as eco-populist, has sought to attract voters by addressing a wider range of concerns beyond climate change and environmental protection.
The party has increasingly focused on the cost of living, drug legalisation and support for Palestinians, positioning itself as a progressive alternative to Labour. Its growing appeal was reinforced last year when it defeated Labour in a special election.
However, the Greens’ changing priorities have also sparked debate among party members, with some concerned that environmental issues are receiving less attention.
Polanski’s campaign was further complicated by controversy surrounding a motion adopted by Green Party members earlier this month that described Zionism, the political movement supporting a Jewish homeland, as a form of racism.
The decision drew criticism from many British Jews and exposed divisions within the party. Several elected Green representatives also opposed the motion, raising questions about its implications for the party’s unity and public image.
Israel condemned the move as antisemitic and barred Polanski, who is Jewish, from entering the country.
The controversy has intensified scrutiny of Polanski’s leadership at a time when the Greens are seeking to broaden their electoral appeal and challenge Labour among left-leaning voters.
The latest result also renews questions about Polanski’s position outside the House of Commons and whether he can effectively lead the party without holding a seat in Parliament.
Despite the defeat, Polanski has indicated that he intends to remain in the role, expressing confidence in his ability to manage the challenges facing the party.
The by-election outcome represents an important test of the Greens’ recent momentum and highlights the political difficulties they face as they attempt to expand their support while navigating disagreements over ideology, policy priorities and leadership.