Zack Polanski has admitted he was wrong to claim he was a spokesman for the British Red Cross, backing away from the false assertion made during his 2022 campaign to become the Green Party's deputy leader. The admission comes as he faces increasing scrutiny ahead of local elections.
False Claim and Correction
Mr Polanski, a London Assembly member, was questioned on BBC Radio 4's Today Programme about the claim, which was highlighted by The Times. He explained that he had hosted fundraisers for the British Red Cross and would speak on stage about their humanitarian work. 'I used the wrong word, and I accept that,' he said, adding that he had ensured the claim was taken down. He acknowledged that the charity does not support any political party.
Police Criticism and Trauma
Mr Polanski also faced scrutiny over his endorsement of social media posts criticizing the Metropolitan Police's handling of a knife attack suspect in Golders Green. The police forcibly detained the suspect after three people were stabbed, leading to a public rebuke from Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley. Mr Polanski, who had been condemned by Prime Minister Keir Starmer as 'disgraceful' and 'not fit to lead any political party,' said he was 'traumatised' by the footage. He issued a half-hearted apology on Friday but doubled down on his criticism in subsequent interviews.
In today's interview, Mr Polanski stated that while officers are brave for running towards danger, he was 'traumatised' by seeing someone handcuffed and repeatedly kicked in the head. He maintained that both perspectives can be true simultaneously.
Palestine on the Ballot
Mr Polanski also suggested that the issue of Palestine is 'on the ballot' for the upcoming English council elections. A recent poll indicated that his personal ratings have slumped over the past week, adding to the pressure on the Green Party leader.
