Zack Polanski has been elected as the new leader of the Green Party, defeating rivals Adrian Ramsay and Ellie Chowns with a decisive majority. The London Assembly member, who previously served as deputy leader, takes over following the resignation of Bristol MP Carla Denyer. Mr Polanski said his campaign of “eco-populism” aims to establish the Greens as a serious alternative to Labour and Reform UK, with proposals such as wealth taxes and accelerated net zero policies.
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Speaking after his victory, Mr Polanski revealed he had spoken to former Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn earlier in the week. His openness to potential cooperation with Mr Corbyn’s new political movement, which is yet to be formally named, had been a topic of debate during the leadership contest. Mr Polanski praised Mr Corbyn’s inquiry into the government’s role in Gaza, describing it as an example of work he could support across party lines. Mr Corbyn congratulated Mr Polanski on his “stunning victory” and said he looked forward to working together on shared priorities.
Mr Polanski also commented on the importance of building a stronger, more distinctive political identity for the Greens. While critical of Nigel Farage’s policies, he acknowledged Farage’s ability to connect with voters and argued that his party must deliver a bolder message to achieve greater influence. He positioned the Greens as a party ready to challenge established power structures and to represent communities who feel excluded from mainstream politics.
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In a wide-ranging interview, Mr Polanski also addressed the debate about flying the St George’s Cross. He said the flag could symbolise patriotism at sporting events, but acknowledged that for many, particularly in Black and Asian communities, it also carried associations with colonialism and empire. He argued that patriotism should be about respecting and supporting neighbours, regardless of origin, and suggested the trend of flying the English flag outside homes was “quite imported from America”.
