In a significant blow to the local party, a third Southwark councillor has resigned from the Labour Party to join the Greens within a two-month period.
A "Difficult Decision" and a Clash of Narratives
Cllr Reginald Popoola, who has represented the Queen's Head and Nunhead ward since 2022, announced his departure on Tuesday, 7 January 2026. He also stepped down from his role as Deputy Cabinet Member for Landlord Services. In a letter to Labour council leader Cllr Sarah King, Popoola stated it was a "difficult decision" but that his principles now aligned more closely with the Green Party's core values.
He launched a strong critique of his former party, accusing it of "demonising migrants for political gain," perpetuating austerity, and rigging internal council elections. "I am a Black working class man from Southwark who has seen the damage that these actions have on our diverse communities," he wrote.
However, Southwark Labour presented a starkly different account. A party spokesperson claimed Popoola only joined the Greens after disciplinary proceedings were initiated against him "over his abandonment of his duties to local residents," specifically citing neglect of his housing portfolio.
A Growing Trend of Defections
Cllr Popoola's move marks the third such defection in quick succession, indicating a growing local rift. The exodus began in November when former Labour Chair Kath Whittam left after 42 years, citing a chaotic leadership election. She was followed in December by Cllr Sam Foster of Faraday ward, who criticised Labour's asylum seeker policy and its stance on workers' rights.
Cllr Foster, now Leader of the Southwark Green Party, welcomed Popoola, calling his departure a "huge loss" for Labour. He stated the Greens represent those struggling with high costs and poor housing, adding that Popoola would be a "powerful champion" for residents.
Political Re-alignment and Future Plans
This series of defections has altered the political makeup of Southwark Council. The council of 63 members now has 46 Labour councillors, 11 Liberal Democrats, 3 independents, and 3 Greens. Cllr Popoola confirmed he will serve the remainder of his term as a Green councillor and intends to stand for re-election in the May 2026 council elections, but in the Rye Lane ward.
The contrasting explanations for his departure highlight the deepening internal tensions within Southwark's political landscape, setting the stage for a highly contested local election cycle.
