Female councillors and officers have reportedly quit the Green Party over "extraordinary instances of misogyny" in a blow to leader Zack Polanski. A motion submitted for the party's annual autumn conference raised concerns over women being "sidelined, patronised, intimidated or treated with hostility by male colleagues". It warned that the behaviour is "downplayed, denied or treated as less serious than other forms of oppression", as per The Times.
Councillor and candidate speak out
Patrick Thelwell, former Green council candidate in York, who put forward the motion, said "countless" women had either left or were seriously considering leaving the party as a result of "extraordinary incidents of misogyny that have occurred and been minimised". Jennifer Dee Norman-Kerr, Green candidate for Leeds East in the 2024 general election, also said female representatives in her local party had reported "abusive language, intimidation and interference in election campaigns".
Polanski's by-election challenge
It comes as Mr Polanski prepares to contest former Prime Minister Keir Starmer's seat in the upcoming Holborn and St Pancras by-election. The Green leader said he was confident "but not complacent" about his chances and that he thought voters would "struggle to get excited about another Labour MP". While the Greens are likely to pose the greatest threat to Labour in the contest, there is much at stake for Mr Polanski's party, which has dipped in popularity since Andy Burnham entered No 10 in July.
Party response
A party source told The Times they "don't recognise" the misogyny allegations as "an accurate characterisation of the party". "Misogyny is sadly still pervasive across society, and every party and organisation has a responsibility to listen to concerns and keep improving," they added. A Green spokesperson said: "The Green Party makes policy in a democratic way, and all members can submit motions to our conference. These motions are subject to a prioritisation ballot. The vast majority will not be discussed."
