The Green Party has announced its candidate for the upcoming Makerfield by-election: Chris Kennedy, a children's safeguarding specialist and pro-Palestine activist who has previously criticised the expense of holding by-elections.
Candidate Selection and Campaign
Mr Kennedy expressed pride in being chosen by party members to stand on June 18. The Greens are expected to campaign vigorously in what is widely regarded as a direct contest between Reform UK and Labour, a race that could impede Andy Burnham's anticipated return to Westminster.
This announcement follows Mr Kennedy's unsuccessful bid for a seat on St Helens Council in his hometown of Newton-le-Willows during the local elections, where Reform UK made significant gains, ending Labour's long-standing control.
Pro-Palestine Stance
Mr Kennedy has endorsed the 'Candidate Pledge for Palestine', a commitment by over 2,200 candidates to oppose Israel's actions in Gaza, including divesting council pension funds from companies complicit in alleged genocide and apartheid. The pledge was organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, which faced controversy over a London rally where the slogan 'from the river to the sea' was projected onto Big Ben. The group's director, Ben Jamal, was recently convicted for breaching protest orders.
Local and Financial Concerns
During his local election campaign, Mr Kennedy praised Wigan Council's improvements in special educational needs provision. He also voiced strong objections to the financial burden of by-elections, particularly those triggered by resignations of newly elected Reform councillors. He stated, 'My focus is on spending money wisely for the community. When a Reform candidate drops out after becoming a councillor, it forces a costly by-election that diverts funds from potholes, roads, and support for families and children with special needs.'
By-Election Context
The Makerfield by-election was necessitated after Labour MP Josh Simons resigned to allow Andy Burnham a route back to Parliament, potentially positioning him to challenge Sir Keir Starmer for the party leadership. Mr Kennedy, upon his nomination, emphasised a positive vision: 'We want to defend our area against hate and division, and focus on what makes Makerfield special. People here face a cost-of-living crisis and need real support. The Greens will fight for warmer homes, lower bills, a fairer economy, and a properly funded NHS.'
Party Leadership's View
Green Party leader Zack Polanski identified Reform UK as the primary threat, accusing it of being beholden to corporate interests and divisive. He claimed, 'We have shown we can take votes from Reform in a way Labour cannot. Many voters fed up with the status quo will choose between Reform and Greens.' He also pledged to challenge Andy Burnham on his record and commitment to fair voting and public ownership.
