Labour Wins London Special Election as Greens Suffer Defeat Amid Antisemitism Row

The British Labour Party secured a significant victory in the special election in the Holborn and St Pancras constituency of London, providing a major boost to Prime Minister Andy Burnham. Labour candidate Sagal Abdi-Wali defeated Green Party leader Zack Polanski in the contest for the seat vacated following the resignation of Keir Starmer.

Election Results and Breakdown

Abdi-Wali won 45 percent of the vote, translating to 12,292 supporters, while Polanski secured 32.7 percent with 8,928 votes. Voter turnout stood at 38.8 percent, representing a sharp decline compared to 54.1 percent in the 2024 general election. The Conservative Party placed third with 1,922 votes, and Reform UK finished fourth with 1,612 votes.

The defeat is a severe blow to Polanski, who has faced mounting internal pressure. The Green Party has experienced a slump in the polls amid widespread public controversy following a party conference motion declaring that "zionism is racism." Consequently, Polanski was barred from entering Israel, and the Chief Rabbi of the United Kingdom, Sir Ephraim Mirvis, condemned the move as toxic antisemitism.

"This victory says something about the question of who is allowed to belong. For people who look like me, I hope they see themselves reflected here," said Abdi-Wali after her victory.

Political Repercussions

Despite criticism from former party leader Caroline Lucas over his handling of the anti-Israel motion, Polanski stated he has no intention of resigning. For Abdi-Wali, a former Somali refugee and council leader, the win marks a profound personal and symbolic milestone despite enduring xenophobic remarks during the campaign.

The election followed Starmer's departure from Parliament. Commentators note that the victory demonstrates positive momentum for Prime Minister Burnham, replacing his predecessor's approach with a message of hope and change.