Kathmandu— Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party, has announced his bid to contest the by-election in Holborn and St Pancras, the parliamentary seat previously held by former Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who stepped down after more than a decade in office. The by-election, expected later this year, has become the most closely watched contest of the parliamentary term as analysts question whether Polanski and the Greens can overcome Labour's long-standing dominance in the traditionally safe seat.

Green Party Momentum and Challenges

The Green Party has seen significant growth under Polanski's leadership, achieving double-digit polling nationally and securing a surprise by-election victory in Greater Manchester. In the recent Camden council elections, the Greens won 28.8 percent of the vote compared to Labour's 38.8 percent, marking their first success in Starmer's own constituency. However, political analysts remain skeptical about Polanski's chances in the by-election, with University of Liverpool professor Jonathan Tonge stating that a Green win would be "a surprise."

Tonge noted that the timing of the by-election is critical, suggesting Labour would prefer a quick contest before Prime Minister Andy Burnham's 'honeymoon period' ends. Burnham, who took office after nine years as mayor of Greater Manchester, has enjoyed a 46 percent favorable rating in an August YouGov survey, contrasting with Starmer's more cautious approach.

The Greens' recent success in local elections and their first parliamentary by-election win in February have boosted their momentum, but analysts warn that Polanski's personal popularity and the party's broader appeal remain uncertain as they seek to challenge Labour in its strongest stronghold.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

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Originally published on abcnews.com.np.