A Call for Reform
The Green Party of England and Wales (GPEW) recently held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on November 9, 2024, in an online format.
This standalone event, separate from the Autumn Conference, serves as a platform for elected bodies to present their reports to the membership.
Only members of GPEW in good standing were able to attend, so the Greens in Exile were not able to hear firsthand what happened at the AGM. Fortunately, sources within the party were able to enlighten us.
A troubled AGM
The meeting, held via Zoom, struggled with logistical issues, including late-arriving voting links, unclear procedures, and poor time management. The meeting was attended by less than 1% of the membership, with fewer than 500 members in attendance, but it was at least quorate unlike the year before. Reports from various committees and leadership bodies dominated the agenda, covering topics such as finance and the disciplinary processes.
The Leadership Team Report, presented by co-leaders Carla Denyer and Adrian Ramsay, and deputy leader Zack Polanski, provided an uninspiring summary of events attended and media appearances. Members present have criticised the report for lacking strategic vision or substantive analysis of key political issues.
The Green Party Executive (GPEx) Report, including the Treasurer’s financial overview, faced scrutiny over ongoing financial pressures stemming from legal cases, general election costs, and internal disputes. Questions were also raised about local parties’ capitation payments being suspended in order to bring the party back to a secure financial position. Amendments to the report were proposed and debated, with some accepted, revealing dissatisfaction with GPEx’s handling of controversies like the removal of Shahrar Ali as a national spokesperson.
Divisive debates and internal strife
The meeting exposed deep divisions within the party, particularly during discussions of the Green Party Regional Council (GPRC) Report and the Disciplinary Committee (DC) Report. A Minority Report presented by GPRC members rejected claims of “misinformation spread by suspended and expelled members”, reflecting a lack of consensus within the council. Meanwhile, the DC Report faced backlash for its inflammatory language, with minority members distancing themselves from the co-chairs’ combative tone.
Greens in Exile have noted the claims made in both of these reports and an additional claim made by one GPRC member about the conduct of the exiles at conference which we and many witnesses refute.
The AGM also highlighted broader governance issues. Allegations emerged that the party ignored legal advice in disciplinary appeals, though these claims were disputed by GPRC leadership. Members questioned the transparency and effectiveness of internal disciplinary processes.
Leadership under fire
In subsequent reflections after the AGM, members have voiced frustration with the party’s leadership, describing it as passive and apolitical. Critics argue that co-leaders Carla Denyer and Adrian Ramsay function more as figureheads and spokespeople than proactive political leaders, focusing on appearances rather than addressing pressing political opportunities and threats.
The leadership was criticised for failing to articulate a vision for addressing critical issues such as environmental degradation, housing policy, and climate change. Observers noted missed opportunities to challenge government policies and frame key debates, such as the impact of sewage pollution and the dangers of unchecked growth.
Moreover, internal governance challenges—ranging from financial mismanagement to restrictions on debate—have eroded trust in the party’s leadership structures. The wave of member expulsions and allegations of misconduct, combined with the lack of transparency, underscore the need for systemic reform.
In summary
The Green Party AGM revealed a party in urgent need of revitalisation. Effective leadership requires not only managing internal processes but also needs to inspire and mobilise members to engage with broader political challenges. A stronger focus on grassroots democracy, clear messaging, and strategic campaigning is essential to reinvigorate the party’s mission and rebuild member confidence.
Moving forward, the Green Party must address its internal strife and operational shortcomings. This includes improving transparency, fostering open debate, and creating leadership bodies capable of uniting and guiding the party. Without these changes, the party risks losing its ability to advocate effectively for the urgent environmental and social justice issues it is supposed to champion.
The Green Party’s strength lies in its members’ commitment to a better future. It is now up to its leadership to rise to the occasion and provide the vision and direction needed to make that future a reality.
Editor’s note: Others have also reported on the Green Party AGM: ‘Green Party Annual General Meeting – a Guide for the confused‘ by Green Feminists, ‘What is wrong with “democracy” in the green party?‘ by the Green Light blog and this excellent analysis on Facebook.