The Green Party has announced a new candidate for the Makerfield by-election, following the withdrawal of their previous choice amid an antisemitism controversy. Manchester city councillor Sarah Wakefield will now contest the vote scheduled for June 18, presenting a message that "the future can be better and fairer than the failed status quo."
New Candidate Selected
Ms Wakefield, currently on maternity leave from her role as a charity director, brings experience in retail with a focus on sustainable food. She expressed pride in representing the Green Party, emphasizing the importance of voter choice in a democracy. "Together we can bring back the hope that politics can create a better life for ourselves and our children," she stated.
She highlighted the party's recent success in Gorton and Denton, where they defeated Reform UK, and called for a hopeful rather than angry vote. "Don't vote in anger, vote in hope," she urged.
Previous Candidate's Withdrawal
Chris Kennedy, the initial Green candidate, stood down just nine hours after his candidacy was announced last Thursday, citing "personal and family reasons." This followed reports that he had shared a social media post describing an attack on Jewish ambulances in north London as a "false flag."
A Green Party spokesperson confirmed that the posts "don't reflect the views of the Green Party" and that Mr Kennedy had apologized and deleted them. The party acted swiftly to replace him, ensuring continuity for the by-election campaign.
The Makerfield by-election, triggered by the resignation of former Labour MP Yvonne Fovargue, is seen as a key test for all parties. Ms Wakefield aims to build on the party's momentum and offer a progressive alternative to voters.
