Green leader successfully passes no confidence vote

The head of Kents Green Party administration has successfully withstood a no-confidence vote, despite controversy over his recent call for a pardon for individuals historically convicted as witches.

Stuart Jeffery, leader of Maidstone Borough Council, faced a motion tabled by Conservative councillors citing multiple concerns about his leadership. The vote, held on Wednesday, concluded with 28 members supporting Jeffery and 14 opposing him, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Jeffery responded to the outcome, stating: "While my approach may not appeal to everyone, I am delivering the programme I promised and engaging with the community in a meaningful way."

Conservative councillor Claudine Russell, who introduced the motion, argued that it was necessary due to leadership drifting from its main objectives and misaligned priorities. In addition to Jefferys pardon proposal, the Conservatives expressed worries about a proposed 7 million investment to decarbonise Maidstone House, the councils headquarters.

Jeffery had previously promised to address all allegations, dismissing the motion as baseless. Russell defended the motion as a constructive exercise, emphasizing that scrutiny strengthens leadership. She added: "Residents have questions, and its right that we ask them. Robust opposition leads to better governance."

Author: Gavin Porter