Green Party Leader Zack Polanski Faces Controversies Over Electoral Registration and Council Tax

The Green Party said its leader, Zack Polanski, "fell short of time" to update his address on the electoral register after moving into rented accommodation as a lodger, following failed plans to move elsewhere. Initially, a spokesperson suggested Polanski might have used a postal vote in Hackney while campaigning in Wales on polling day, but this was later attributed to a "miscommunication". The party explained that Polanski faced "heightened intrusion and safety risk" and was targeted by antisemitic and homophobic abuse, leading to his failure to register to vote anonymously due to the "extra process" required. Separately, the Green Party acknowledged Polanski may not have paid council tax on a houseboat in an east London marina, which his partner described as "our amazing home... for three years" in a sale advertisement. Experts note that a boat used as a sole or main residence incurs council tax liability. Polanski claimed he thought mooring fees included the tax and has contacted the council to clarify his obligations, stating he will pay any owed amount on principle.

The Green Party clarified that Polanski lived in a different London address where he paid council tax and only occasionally stayed on the boat. Polanski accepted responsibility, acknowledging it was his duty to ensure tax payment, despite uncertainty over whether he owes any.

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