Lukasz Furmaniak, Scottish Libertarian Party candidate, Central Scotland and Lothian West regional list.

May 2026 sees Scottish Parliament elections with seats being offered both for constituencies and regional lists.  We speak with Lukasz Furmaniak, Scottish Libertarian Party candidate, Central Scotland and Lothian regional list.

“I was looking for a force that could stop that ever growing bureaucracy and control over our lives”

Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?

I am a Pole living in Scotland for about 14 years. Over a year ago I  joined the Scottish libertarian party as I was looking for a force that could stop that ever growing bureaucracy and control over our lives that I have noticed for quite some time now. I went for one meeting and immediately felt that I had found home. Our party is the only real alternative to what we have now.

You’re the prospective candidate for Central Scotland and Lothian West regional list, what are the major concerns in the area?

The concerns of the area are the same as the concerns nationwide. Hurdles put in our way by the government, the more lucrative business type the more you will need to spend first to be able to start it in the first place. For example, try to open an energy supplying business.

“Making it easier to start a business, getting rid of some licences, permissions and corresponding to them bodies”

What do you see as the major issues that if elected you hope to champion?

There are so many things here that it is hard to choose. But as I mentioned just a moment ago,  I think our main focus should be on broadly understood bureaucracy. Making it easier to start a business, getting rid of some licences, permissions and corresponding to them bodies. Second important fight is to get the government budget balanced.

How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?

You visit our website: https://scottishlibertarians.com/
we are also quite active on the X platform: https://x.com/ScoLibertarian
or you can email me directly at: lukasz.furmaniak@scottishlibertarians.com

You can also read our 2026 Manifesto at: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/rbi1nzoqkkgkzldjnvoy2/Scottish-Libertarian-Manifesto-2026.pdf?rlkey=kbnw6vcsxm5s3mpgoaykauuqb&e=1&st=z4g96fo8&dl=0.

Mal McDermott, Libertarian Party, candidate for Wishing Tree ward of Hastings Borough Council.

With local elections across much of the country in May, we speak with long term friend of the Croydon Constitutionalists, Mal McDermott of the Libertarian Party.  Mal is running as a candidate for the Wishing Tree ward of Hastings Borough Council.

“I have decided to run as there is a need for some kind of fiscal oversight in local government”

Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?

I’m Malachy McDermott, a financial analyst and former treasurer and London Group Leader of LPUK. I have decided to run as there is a need for some kind of fiscal oversight in local government and a need to deliver on meaningful projects and cut out the fluff.

What are the main concerns in your ward and if elected what wider issues do you hope to champion?

I’m running in St Leonards-on-Sea in the Wishing Tree ward. I’d like to see an improvement to our roads which have been wildly neglected as of late. On top of that I would like to act as a people’s fiscal watchdog, keeping them informed of how their money is being spent. Transparency and Fiscal Responsibility are the key components of my campaign. Although the current finances look okay, under the hood there is a lot more that needs to be done to make the area financially secure.

“I’d like to see an improvement to our roads which have been wildly neglected as of late”

How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?

You can find out more about the Libertarian Party at https://libertarianpartyuk.com/, you can also follow us on X/Twitter and Facebook.

People can visit my candidate Facebook page and spread the word to their friends and family. Getting involved is as easy as voting for me!

Cameron Milne, Scottish Libertarian Party candidate, West of Scotland regional list.

May 2026 sees Scottish Parliament elections with seats being offered both for constituencies and regional lists.  We speak with Cameron Milne, Scottish Libertarian Party candidate, West of Scotland regional list.

“I’m standing because people deserve to know there is a real alternative – one that trusts individuals”

Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?

I’ve been a member of the Scottish Libertarian Party for nearly six years. Libertarian ideals are lacking in Scotland, but they are clearly wanted by many. Our principles are simple: the right to freedom and the right to life.

I’m standing because people deserve to know there is a real alternative – one that trusts individuals, not systems, and puts responsibility back where it belongs.

“The Scottish Libertarian Party is the ONLY party offering something genuinely different”

You’re the prospective candidate for West of Scotland regional list, what are the major concerns in the area?

As a candidate for the West of Scotland regional list, the biggest concern I hear is simple—nothing ever really changes.

Every election cycle brings the same promises and the same disappointment. People feel stuck, with no real alternative on the ballot. The Scottish Libertarian Party is the ONLY party offering something genuinely different.

“Right now, the system rewards spending more, not saving. That has to change”

What do you see as the major issues that if elected you hope to champion?

If elected, I will focus on bringing accountability back to public spending.

Right now, the system rewards spending more, not saving. That has to change. This is the public’s money, and it should be treated with respect. I’ll push to get waste under control and ensure value for every pound spent.

How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?

You can get more involved in the campaign by visiting Home – Official Scottish Libertarian Political Party Website.

Additionally you can follow us on X @ScoLibertarian and read our 2026 Manifesto at https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/rbi1nzoqkkgkzldjnvoy2/Scottish-Libertarian-Manifesto-2026.pdf?rlkey=kbnw6vcsxm5s3mpgoaykauuqb&e=1&st=z4g96fo8&dl=0.

Calum Paul, Scottish Libertarian Party candidate, Mid Scotland and Fife regional list.

May 2026 sees Scottish Parliament elections with seats being offered both for constituencies and regional lists.  We speak with Calum Paul, Scottish Libertarian Party candidate, Mid Scotland and Fife regional list.

“I don’t feel the other candidates are qualified to make decisions for me, so I stand and vote for myself.”

Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?

I’m a local musician and filmmaker from Kirkcaldy Scotland and former Kirkcaldy business owner. I am standing because I don’t feel the other candidates are qualified to make decisions for me, so I stand and vote for myself.

“if the government got less involved in the market and funded fewer meddling quangos then businesses would have the freedom to grow”

You’re the prospective candidate for Mid Scotland and Fife regional list, what are the major concerns in the area?

The main concerns of the area are economical, and I think that if the government got less involved in the market and funded fewer meddling quangos then businesses would have the freedom to grow within the area and fewer high streets like Kirkcaldy would see the loss of well-established brands.

“This organisation can barely fix a pothole yet it’s taking more and more of our money every year”


What do you see as the major issues that if elected you hope to champion?

The issues that concern me are freedom and getting the government out of everyone’s way. Fewer fines, fees and taxes, levies and quangos. Everywhere you look there’s ULEZ charge or a parking fine, or an exorbitant tax to drive on unkempt roads. Enough. This organisation can barely fix a pothole yet it’s taking more and more of our money every year.

How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?

You can get more involved in the campaign by visiting Home – Official Scottish Libertarian Political Party Website.

Additionally you can follow us on X @ScoLibertarian and read our 2026 Manifesto at https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/rbi1nzoqkkgkzldjnvoy2/Scottish-Libertarian-Manifesto-2026.pdf?rlkey=kbnw6vcsxm5s3mpgoaykauuqb&e=1&st=z4g96fo8&dl=0.

Nathan Lumb, Scottish Libertarian Party candidate, Highlands and Islands regional list.

May 2026 sees Scottish Parliament elections with seats being offered both for constituencies and regional lists.  We speak with Nathan Lumb, Scottish Libertarian Party candidate, Highlands and Islands regional list.

“I am running as a candidate because I believe the people of the highlands deserve a chance at voting for an idea that won’t result in yet more government overreach and overspending”

Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?

I’m Nathan Lumb, standing for the Scottish Libertarian party in the highlands and islands region this coming election, a region I have lived and worked in my whole life. I am running as a candidate because I believe the people of the highlands deserve a chance at voting for an idea that won’t result in yet more government overreach and overspending. 

“the system is rotten to the core and if we don’t push for major change in both the power of the government and people’s relationship with it, we are in for a very bad time indeed”

You’re the prospective candidate for Highlands and Islands regional list, what are the major concerns in the area?

The issues facing the Highlands are the same issues that face the rest of Scotland. A government hell bent on overspending, yet more laws to erode our freedom, a stagnant economy, services that cost us more each year whilst providing less and less and an economic situation that increasingly punishes the working individuals and rewards those who live off the state. Add to this a noticeable shift in the sort of crimes police are investigating (social media posts etc) whilst ignoring actual crimes against person and property and a very grim picture is painted indeed of the state of affairs of this Nation. The issue put simply is too much government, the system is rotten to the core and if we don’t push for major change in both the power of the government and people’s relationship with it, we are in for a very bad time indeed.  

“fight against new laws  or repeal current ones that go against the core values of freedom of choice and speech such as the hate crime bill , sugar taxes and minimum pricing on alcohol to name but a few”

What do you see as the major issues that if elected you hope to champion?

I see the issues as two-fold what I would see as the ultimate goal of a libertarian and what I if elected can do in the present and now to help people.

The main goal of course would be reducing the overall scope and power of government, reduce spending, fight against new laws  or repeal current ones that go against the core values of freedom of choice and speech such as the hate crime bill , sugar taxes and minimum pricing on alcohol to name but a few. I’ve always said that I would consider my role a success if I was able to reduce government size to the point I put myself out of a job.

The main issues I stand for are simple, I would fight tooth and nail to protect individual rights, freedom of speech and choice and to reduce government interference in a individuals life. In a more localised smaller way as one of I worry only a small number of individuals who would hold these values as well I would make it my goal whilst not only to do all I have mentioned above to the best of my ability but also to work tirelessly to make sure the people of the highlands and islands are kept informed of what is happening in parliament through surgeries and social media what is being debated what motions are tabled so that they have a chance to write to MPs to protest and have their voices heard so that politicians are reminded that they are meant to be the servants of the people’s will. 

“standing for the Scottish Libertarian party in the highlands and islands region this coming election, a region I have lived and worked in my whole life”

How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?

You can find out more about the Scottish Libertarian party at https://scottishlibertarians.com/ or follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ScottishLibertarians and if you wish to get in touch with me personally you can email me at nlumb97@yahoo.co.uk

Antony Vundi, Reform UK candidate for Shirley South in Croydon.

With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Antony Vundi, Reform UK candidate for Shirley South.

“I decided to stand because I am tired of the repeated letdowns and broken promises from the same crop of Conservative and Labour local politicians”

Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?

I grew up in Croydon, attending both primary and secondary school in the borough after moving to the United Kingdom at the age of six, without speaking a word of English. My parents were strong advocates of integrating into British culture, and within approximately three months, I had learned the language—so much so that today, many people are surprised to learn that English is not my first language!

While my parents gave me a great deal of freedom growing up, they also instilled in me the belief that there is no substitute for hard work and self-discipline. That mindset led me to begin working at 16 in a major retail store on Purley Way, even before sitting my GCSEs! I continued working throughout sixth form and later chose a degree apprenticeship, as I wanted to keep earning and gaining practical experience rather than pursue the traditional university route.

That background has shaped who I am today-one of the youngest Solicitors of the Senior Courts of England and Wales.

I decided to stand because I am tired of the repeated letdowns and broken promises from the same crop of Conservative and Labour local politicians. I am frustrated with hearing from scripted career politicians and want to see real, straight-talking, and competent leadership in the Council—people who are focused on running it efficiently and being accountable to the public.

After years of complaining about the lack of such leadership, I asked myself: why not me? Why can’t I deliver the change I want to see? At only 25, I have already beaten the odds in my academic and professional life but I want to take on a new challenge—in the service of ALL the people of Shirley South.

“Motorists in Shirley, in particular, have borne the brunt of these policies. Many have been penalised by LTNs across Croydon that were later ruled unlawful, having been implemented for revenue generation rather than genuine safety concerns”

You’re the prospective candidate for Shirley South ward, what are the major concerns in the area?

Shirley South is defined by the suburban character that so strongly shapes our borough. That is precisely why many residents question why such a sprawling, car-dependent area – poorly served by public transport – appears increasingly hostile to motorists. The nearest Underground station is some seven miles away in Brixton. Policies designed for Inner London simply do not translate well here, particularly when neighbouring Bromley demonstrates that a more balanced approach can maintain equal or better road safety outcomes.

Motorists in Shirley, in particular, have borne the brunt of these policies. Many have been penalised by LTNs across Croydon that were later ruled unlawful, having been implemented for revenue generation rather than genuine safety concerns. A blanket 20mph speed limit has been imposed across the area, often without regard for local context – for example, along stretches such as Shirley Church Road and Oaks Road, where such restrictions appear disproportionate. These policies were introduced under a Labour administration and remained largely unchanged during four years of Conservative control of the Council.

Residents face further frustration when navigating the borough. Attempting something as routine as picking up a family member from East Croydon station can result in fines from a yellow box junction that has generated substantial income for the council, despite growing questions over its legality. Meanwhile, basic road maintenance has been neglected: potholes – most notably in Shirley Hills car park—remain unrepaired, and roads have gone unsalted during winter conditions.

Public transport offers little relief. The ward suffers from limited rail access and inconsistent bus services. Residents have even endured winters without bus stop shelters due to disputes between the council and Transport for London. And, time and again, the long-discussed “bridge to nowhere” at East Croydon station is raised on the doorstep as a symbol of missed opportunities and poor delivery.

“To summarise: Westfield and West Croydon. Both in many ways, symbolise this borough’s failure to grasp the opportunities before it”

More widely what do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?

To summarise: Westfield and West Croydon. Both in many ways, symbolise this borough’s failure to grasp the opportunities before it – despite being one of the largest boroughs in London, itself one of Europe’s leading cities.

Residents in Shirley South tell me they do not feel safe in the town centre. They acknowledge the efforts of the police but say that crime and anti-social behaviour often appear to go unchecked, while issues like littering have become normalised. As a result, some are sadly choosing to shop in nearby Bromley, or even travel as far as Bluewater Shopping Centre, rather than support our own high street.

As a Council, we need to refocus on the basics. No more ill-conceived schemes. No more over-engineered, underused cycle lanes or poorly thought-out road closures. No more speculative developments that fail to deliver for residents. And no more wasting money chasing trends or relying on expensive consultants.

We must get the fundamentals right – and, above all, be honest with residents about our financial position. In my role as Shirley South’s councillor, I will champion a practical, common-sense approach to transport and planning policy, and tackling anti-social behaviour, to help get our borough back on track, for ALL the residents of this ward.

“I grew up in Croydon, attending both primary and secondary school in the borough”

How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?

You can find out more in our booklet ‘CROYDON NEEDS REFORM – OUR CONTRACT WITH YOU’.  You can also follow us on Facebook or contact us at chair.croydon@reformuk.com.

Daniel Fraser, Scottish Libertarian Party candidate, South Scotland regional list.

May 2026 sees Scottish Parliament elections with seats being offered both for constituencies and regional lists.  We speak with Daniel Fraser, Scottish Libertarian Party Candidate, South Scotland Regional List.

“Scotland is not as free as it should be and I want to change that”

Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?

My name is Daniel Fraser. I decided to run in this election because Scotland is not as free as it should be and I want to change that.

“in the UK more people are arrested for hate speech than in Russia. I could never support a person being prosecuted for saying something that I don’t like”

What do you see as the major issues that if elected you hope to champion?

The main issue that concerns me is freedom of speech. People in Scotland are arrested every day because of things they say on the Internet. In fact, in the UK more people are arrested for hate speech than in Russia. I could never support a person being prosecuted for saying something that I don’t like.

If elected, I will do everything I can to make Scotland a more free place to live. More individual liberty and personal freedoms. No more laws, no more taxes, no more expansions of state power. If you know you’re right but you can’t win, you should fight anyway. That’s why I’m a Libertarian.

How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?

If you would like to learn more you can visit our website www.scottishlibertarians.com. We also hold meet ups throughout Scotland, more information about these is also on our website. 

Additionally you can follow us on X @ScoLibertarian and read our 2026 Manifesto at https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/rbi1nzoqkkgkzldjnvoy2/Scottish-Libertarian-Manifesto-2026.pdf?rlkey=kbnw6vcsxm5s3mpgoaykauuqb&e=1&st=z4g96fo8&dl=0.

“If you know you’re right but you can’t win, you should fight anyway. That’s why I’m a Libertarian”

Michael Swadling, Reform UK candidate for Norbury Park in Croydon.

With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with our very own Michael Swadling, Reform UK candidate for Norbury Park.

“Years of failure and political meddling by the council have squandered much of that legacy, leaving taxpayers with mounting debt while hollowing out vital services”

Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?

Born in Mayday Hospital, I’m a lifelong Croydonian with deep roots in our community. For over 20 years, I have served as a school governor at schools across the borough. I ran the Vote Leave campaign in Croydon and have stood for office before.

I had hoped to leave party politics behind, but I’ve decided to run because I remember growing up in an area full of prosperity and opportunity – with excellent shopping, strong road networks, and a vibrant nightlife. Years of failure and political meddling by the council have squandered much of that legacy, leaving taxpayers with mounting debt while hollowing out vital services.

I want to help deliver a council that gets the basics right and empowers the people of Croydon to build the local businesses, jobs, and services we all desire.

“Too often, however, Croydon Council gets in the way – making it harder for people to get around, worsening parking, and failing to deliver the basic services”

You’re the prospective candidate for Norbury Park ward, what are the major concerns in the area?

Many of the issues residents raise – crime, antisocial behaviour, littering, and fly-tipping – stem from the same underlying problem: a lack of pride and belief in our area. 

There are already many excellent local initiatives in Norbury and beyond that support our community, and these should be actively encouraged and backed. 

Too often, however, Croydon Council gets in the way – making it harder for people to get around, worsening parking, and failing to deliver the basic services residents need. Tackling these issues will be my will focus for Norbury Park.

“The borough is effectively bankrupt, and there is no easy fix. Labour drove it into de facto bankruptcy, and the Conservatives have failed to resolve the deep-rooted problems”

More widely what do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?

I have been closely tracking Croydon Council’s problems for over a decade. I was also actively involved in the successful DEMOC campaign that delivered a directly elected Mayor and greater accountability to the borough.

You can read some of my analysis on the waste and mismanagement at the council in my article for the TaxPayers’ Alliance: ‘Consequences for Croydon’

The borough is effectively bankrupt, and there is no easy fix. Labour drove it into de facto bankruptcy, and the Conservatives have failed to resolve the deep-rooted problems. Taxpayers and frontline services have paid the price, while the council continues to waste money on flag-raising ceremonies at every opportunity, with little reduction in senior executive roles, hidden payments, and self-promotion through Your Croydon. It raids whatever funding pot it can, yet residents and essential services continue to suffer.

We need real accountability for the financial mess and a fundamental shift in priorities – from “nice-to-have” vanity projects to “need-to-have” basics. The sums involved may not always be enormous, but we must have a council leadership that leads by example and lives within its means.

Beyond wasteful spending, council interference has allowed our town centre to fall into decline. We need fewer grand schemes and more freedom for small businesses to thrive – delivering better shopping, an appealing environment to locate offices, and a vibrant night-time economy. Where the council should get involved is by working closely with the police and local businesses to make the areas around East and West Croydon stations safe, clean, and welcoming once again.

Beyond the town centre, we have successful local high streets that deserve far greater support. If elected, I will champion Norbury, Upper Norwood, and all our district centres, helping them become thriving, independent destinations shaped by local businesses and the community.

How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?

You can read our excellent ‘OUR CONTRACT WITH YOU’ for Croydon.  You can also follow us on Facebook or contact us at chair.croydon@reformuk.com.

You can find and contact me on Facebook @swadling4Croydon and on X/Twitter @MikeSwadling.

“We need fewer grand schemes and more freedom for small businesses to thrive – delivering better shopping, an appealing environment to locate offices, and a vibrant night-time economy”

Michael Swadling is running for Reform UK with Maria Evans in Norbury Park.

Maria Evans, Reform UK candidate for Norbury Park in Croydon.

With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Maria Evans, Reform UK candidate for Norbury Park.

“It is my absolute resolve and intentional delight to be of serve in Norbury Park ward”

Can you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi there!  Maria Evans is my name and Norbury Park is my ward – and I am truly excited to have the privilege of service in Norbury Park!

Please let me introduce myself here under to you –

My working life spanned various office positions from starting my career as a shorthand typist in the South African Railways upon leaving school to company secretarial governance and share trust administration with the ability to build strong relations with all stakeholders.  Combined I have approximately 26 years of experience in various business entities including auditing, asset management, corporate law, CIB banking, fast moving consumer goods, share trusts and various niche markets.

Was given British Citizenship upon marrying my Liverpool born husband in 1972.  Immigrated to UK in 2017.  After arriving in the UK it seemed prudent to ensure that I had acceptable British qualifications to offer, if needed, and received a level 3 hairdressing NVQ qualification from Croydon College.

Although South African born my heritage was and is predominantly British in family culture.  My family love Britain and all my immediate family live in UK.

It is my absolute resolve and intentional delight to be of serve in Norbury Park ward.

What made you decide to run?

The reason is my desire to be of service due to my experience in Croydon since we arrived as a family from South Africa at the end of 2014.  Very fortunately for us, we were able to be housed by a good family friend.  Dealing with all the official authorities including Croydon Council was relatively easy as these officials were just literally a phone call away and/or a visit to their offices.

Everything seemed to run well including visits to doctors and referrals, if needed. The doctors were able to prescribe relevant medicines as they saw fit. The public transport was impressive and decently reliable. We were able to buy a shopping cart full of good quality vegetables, groceries including meat and dairy, toiletries and some luxury goodies as well for £20.  One learnt that one can walk around towns, parks, and surrounding areas, public transport systems in relative safety, even for the young and old.  The roads were well kept. People were very accommodating of one another.  Even the English dogs are socialised.  People were able to afford a visit to the coffee shop or have a meal.  The high-streets were working well and no business premises stayed unoccupied for long.  The pubs were amazing with pub breakfasts and meals being really affordable. Many older people seemed to come regularly for maybe one decent meal a day on a regular basis.  The pubs were places where the less fortunate of society could go to for an outing, friendship and a bit of a meal.  The pubs catered for the whole strata of society in a very British way of life.  The minimum wage seemed to work good enough for the young and the rest of society.  People were relaxed and certain of their way of life.  They were at ease.

“Norbury Park suffers from some significant antisocial behaviour, including vandalism, drink and drug use, making visitors feel unsafe”

You’re the prospective candidate for Norbury Park ward, what are the major concerns in the area?

Looking at the park itself as a microcosm of the ward, Norbury Park suffers from some significant antisocial behaviour, including vandalism, drink and drug use, making visitors feel unsafe. We also have problems with litter, graffiti, and poor maintenance requiring regular intensive community cleaning efforts.  Key problems include:

  • Antisocial Behaviour: Frequent complaints about drug dealing, drug use, and groups of people drinking in the park.
  • Vandalism: The park has experienced recurring vandalism. Including destroyed equipment, broken notice boards, and graffiti.  The cricket pitch had been appalling vandalised.
  • Safety Concerns: Incidents of intimidation, violence, and sexual offences have been reported.  Increased crime during dark hours is a significant concern.
  • Infrastructure Issues: Poor lighting in certain areas is a major concern.  While a new, all-weather path was installed in 2025 to fix severe winter and mud flooding, the area still requires better facilities.
  • Homelessness & Unauthorised Use: Previous issues with encampments led to police intervention, and the area faces challenges with e-bike misuse and illegal parking, near the site.

“I would like to champion bringing resolutions to the problems of loneliness and misunderstanding”

More widely what do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?

We need a restoration of our City Centre with:

  • Improved infrastructure
  • Businesses helped to be established and maintained
  • Functioning GP surgeries and hospitals
  • More housing
  • Youth engagement
  • Employment
  • Education and understanding
  • Green belts maintained and policed
  • Crime in all its aspects stamped out

I would like to champion bringing resolutions to the problems of loneliness and misunderstanding.

How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?

You can find out more in our booklet ‘CROYDON NEEDS REFORM – OUR CONTRACT WITH YOU’.  You can also follow us on Facebook or contact us at chair.croydon@reformuk.com.

Maria Evans is running for Reform UK with Michael Swadling in Norbury Park.

Adnan Ghori, Reform UK candidate for Waddon in Croydon.

With local elections here in Croydon in May, we speak with Adnan Ghori, Reform UK candidate for Waddon.

“many people feel disconnected from how those decisions are made. I would want to bridge that gap by making information clearer, encouraging open discussion”

Can you introduce yourself to our readers, and tell us what made you decide to run?

My name is Adnan Ghori and while I am a candidate for council, I’m here to represent something increasingly important in our communities: informed, thoughtful decision-making supported by technology and shared knowledge.

My motivation is simple – helping people make better decisions, together. Local government shapes everyday life, from schools and transport to housing and public services. Yet, many people feel disconnected from how those decisions are made. I would want to bridge that gap by making information clearer, encouraging open discussion, and ensuring every voice has access to the knowledge it needs to be heard.

I believe strong communities are built on transparency, participation, and practical solutions.

I want to focus on making local issues easier to understand, highlighting diverse perspectives, and supporting policies that improve quality of life for everyone.

I aim to empower, helping voters stay informed, engaged, and confident in shaping their local future.

“Many residents are worried about anti-social behaviour, theft, and feeling unsafe in certain areas, particularly in the evenings. People want visible policing”

You’re the prospective candidate for Waddon ward, what are the major concerns in the area?

Standing as a prospective candidate for Waddon Ward because I believe local voices deserve stronger representation and practical solutions to everyday challenges.

Through speaking with residents and understanding the area, several major concerns consistently come up.

First, community safety is a top priority. Many residents are worried about anti-social behaviour, theft, and feeling unsafe in certain areas, particularly in the evenings. People want visible policing and preventative measures that actually make a difference.

Second, housing and development remain pressing issues. There are concerns about the pace of new developments, pressure on infrastructure, and the need for genuinely affordable housing-not just more buildings, but better planning that benefits existing residents.

Transport and traffic are also significant challenges. Congestion, parking difficulties, and the reliability of public transport services affect daily life. Safer roads, better traffic management, and improved connections are key priorities for many in the ward.

Another major concern is the condition of local services. Residents often raise issues around waste collection, street cleanliness, and maintenance of public spaces. People want to see consistent, reliable services that reflect the taxes they pay.

Finally, there’s a strong desire to protect and improve green spaces. Parks and open areas are vital for wellbeing, but concerns about upkeep, safety, and potential overdevelopment are frequently mentioned.

I am standing because I want to listen, to act, and ensure Waddon remains a safe, well-connected, and thriving place to live.

“If elected, I would champion responsible financial management, ensuring transparency, prioritising essential services, and rebuilding trust”

More widely what do you see as the big issues for Croydon and if elected what would you hope to champion?

One of the most significant issues in the London Borough of Croydon is financial stability. The council has faced serious budget pressures in recent years, which has had a direct impact on frontline services. If elected, I would champion responsible financial management, ensuring transparency, prioritising essential services, and rebuilding trust with residents about how public money is spent.

Another major challenge is housing. Croydon continues to face high demand for affordable homes, alongside concerns about temporary accommodation and the quality of some housing provision. I would advocate for sustainable development that delivers genuinely affordable, high-quality housing while protecting existing communities.

Town centre regeneration is also critical. Croydon Town Centre has huge potential but needs careful, community-focused renewal. I would support investment that boosts local businesses, improves safety, and creates a vibrant, welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

Community safety remains a borough-wide concern. Working closely with police and local organisations to reduce crime and anti-social behaviour is a key priority, alongside prevention strategies that support young people and vulnerable groups.

Finally, I would strongly champion opportunities for young people-whether through education, skills training, or access to employment. A stronger future for Croydon depends on investing in the next generation and giving them real pathways to succeed

My hope is to help build a Croydon that is financially stable, socially inclusive, and full of opportunity for everyone.

My name is Adnan Ghori l living in Croydon past 10 years  I am a candidate of UK Reform Waddon Ward.

I’m a  Health fighter and I’m here to be heard, to stand up for local people’s Suggestions and change sickness into healthy progress. 

How can people find out more or get involved in the campaign?

You can find out more in our booklet ‘CROYDON NEEDS REFORM – OUR CONTRACT WITH YOU’.  You can also follow us on Facebook or contact us at chair.croydon@reformuk.com.