Leeds councillor Mothin Ali is shaking up the political scene as he throws his hat into the race for deputy leadership of the Green Party. Known for stepping up during the 2024 riots, Ali is determined to reshape the party’s image and message — pushing back against the perception that the Greens mainly represent middle-class interests.
Breaking the Mold: Greens and Class Perception
Ali argues that the Green Party’s challenges — like the climate crisis and rising cost of living — affect everyone, regardless of race or social class. He wants the party to be seen as a genuine voice for all communities, especially working-class people and ethnic minorities, who often feel overlooked in political debates.
“The climate crisis and the cost of living crisis aren’t issues for just one group,” Ali says. “They cut across all races and classes. We need a party that speaks for everyone, not just a select few.”
From the Streets to the Council Chamber
Ali first made headlines during the 2024 riots when he took action to calm tensions and support his community. His hands-on approach and willingness to engage directly with people in difficult moments earned him respect across Leeds.
As a councillor, Ali has focused on local issues that matter to diverse communities — from affordable housing to environmental justice. His leadership bid aims to bring those grassroots concerns to the national stage, challenging the Greens to broaden their appeal.
A Vision for an Inclusive Green Party
If elected deputy leader, Ali wants to steer the Greens toward policies that directly address inequality alongside environmental sustainability. That means tackling the cost of living, improving public services, and ensuring that climate policies do not leave behind marginalized groups.
Ali’s campaign is a call for the Green Party to become a more inclusive, diverse movement — one that unites people across backgrounds around a shared commitment to both social and environmental justice.
