What is happening in Royal Borough of Greenwich should concern everyone who believes in local democracy.
Labour-run Greenwich Council, led by Anthony Okereke, is attempting to push through constitutional changes that would restrict public participation and limit the ability of opposition councillors to scrutinise decisions.
These proposals include:
Restricting the number of questions opposition councillors can ask
Imposing word limits on questions to Cabinet Members
Limiting the ability of residents to question council leaders
Raising the threshold for “call-in” scrutiny, making it harder to challenge controversial decisions
These are not minor procedural tweaks. They risk weakening transparency and accountability in our borough.
Opposition councillors from different political groups — Conservatives, Independents and Greens — have already warned that these changes could damage democracy and reduce scrutiny of the council’s decisions.
And this comes after a series of controversial decisions locally, including cuts to Adventure Play Centres and growing concerns about the direction of the council.
Sadly, this approach mirrors what we are increasingly seeing from the Labour Party nationally — tighter control, less transparency, and fewer opportunities for the public to challenge those in power.
No wonder people are losing trust in politics.
Democracy works only when leaders are willing to be questioned.
Restricting scrutiny is never the answer.
If you believe residents should still have a voice in how Greenwich is run, please consider supporting the petitions opposing these changes:
👉 https://www.change.org/p/stop-royal-borough-of-greenwich-council-s-proposed-constitution-changes
These petitions will be submitted at the next Full Council meeting, and public pressure matters.
Democracy in Greenwich belongs to the people — not just those in power.
Please share and speak up. Silence only helps those who want less scrutiny.
#Greenwich #LocalDemocracy #ProtectDemocracy #Accountability #RightToQuestion