Green Party leader Zack Polanski has ruled out standing in the forthcoming Greater Manchester by-election, despite being born and raised in the constituency. The decision comes as parties announce candidates for the Gorton and Denton seat, with Polanski citing his roughly two decades in London and the party's commitment to "nurturing local talent" over parachuting in high-profile figures.
Speaking on the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme, Polanski acknowledged the tension between his Manchester roots and London base. «I live in London,» he said. «I'm a Mancunian. I've been in London for about 20 years, and the Green Party really believes in nurturing local talent and really lifting up someone from the community. "When a seat comes up in London, I'll absolutely be going for it.»
Local candidate steps forward
The Greens unveiled 34-year-old councillor and plumber Hannah Spencer as their candidate on Friday. Polanski, announcing Spencer's candidacy, declared there were «just days to stop Reform».
The by-election field has rapidly taken shape. Labour announced Manchester city councillor Angeliki Stogia for Whalley Range on Saturday. Reform UK selected GB News presenter and former academic Matt Goodwin. The Liberal Democrats put forward prominent local campaigner Jackie Pearcey.
Electoral landscape
The contest was triggered by former MP Andrew Gwynne's resignation for health reasons. At the previous general election, Labour secured the seat with 18,555 votes – more than half the total. Reform UK came second with 5,142 votes, while the Greens finished third with 4,810 votes.
Changes in public opinion since 2024, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's low national popularity, could reshape voter decisions in the upcoming by-election.
Note: This article was created with Artificial Intelligence (AI).
