Omar Daair

I was born in Dagenham and have lived all over London, but Merton has been my home since 2008. I care deeply about this borough and am passionate about its rich diversity, beautiful green spaces, and sense of community. Although there is a lot that is already great about Merton, there is so much more we can do to ensure that we all have the same opportunities, and to build a borough that brings us together rather than divides us.

I spent 24 years in central government at the Foreign Office, including serving as an Ambassador. Working around the world showed me the difference that good, responsive local government can make to people’s lives. Since leaving the Civil Service, I have put my energy into helping build stronger communities at home, including through volunteering with several local groups and as a charity trustee. I now want to bring that same energy to Council.

I am standing for Council because Merton deserves leadership that listens to residents, reflects our diversity, and acts on what matters most. I will fight for equal opportunities, strong local services, and real action on the cost‑of‑living crisis so that everyone in our borough can thrive.

Johnathan Knight

I’m 31 and originally from Devon. I have a degree in archaeology, have worked in forestry and in teaching, and am now working for a local bathrooms company. After living abroad for several years, I moved to London and have lived in Merton for the last five years.

Since joining the Green Party I’ve been an active campaigner and canvasser, which has given me the opportunity to meet a wide array of people from across the borough, hear people’s stories and concerns, and gain a clear picture of the ways they feel their local council could be doing more for them.

I’m a member of Merton Against Racism and dedicated to combating the current council’s complacent attitude to the rise of far right activity in the borough.

I’m passionate about environmentalism, fighting climate change, and economic fairness, and I believe that these issues are not only important at a national level, but also need tackling by doing what we can at a local and community level. Outside of politics I’m something of a Green Party cliche, being an avid cyclist, and enjoyer of woodworking and nature.

Sally Pannifex

I moved to Merton in 2007 and joined the Green Party when I realised that Labour no longer shared the same priorities. I have always been passionate about the environment and expect government to listen to the scientists rather than fossil fuel lobbyists.

Most people are worried about climate change and expect leadership from the government, but current policy on climate and nature is too often incoherent. Granting approval for a huge tennis complex to be built on Wimbledon Park (benefits overstated and devastating for the climate) is a prime example of this.

I love the diversity of my local community and am particularly interested in affordable and well-insulated housing, health, renewable energy, and the climate.

I am standing as a Councillor for the Green Party to offer my community a positive alternative to the status quo.