Zack Polanski has signalled a potential overhaul of the Green Party's grassroots democracy, suggesting leaders should have greater control over strategic direction. This follows a divisive vote that equated Zionism with racism.
The Green Party leader also questioned the role of political parties in defining members' beliefs, marking his strongest criticism yet of the motion. He acknowledged that some members might feel "let down" by his decision not to intervene on the issue last week, stating his focus was on the Holborn and St Pancras byelection.
Polanski stated that the party's rapid growth necessitates changes to its democratic structures. He believes these changes should include giving leaders more responsibility for setting the party's political direction and making processes more robust and accessible.
The controversy intensified last weekend when 1,022 members, representing approximately 0.4% of the party's total membership, voted in favour of a motion declaring Zionism a form of racism and supporting a single Palestinian state. This motion passed with 1,022 votes to 813 and was opposed by four of the party's five MPs.