Green party man ‘leaves stage’

THE Green Party candidate for the Rochdale by-election has ‘decided to leave the stage’ - following ‘regrettable’ social media posts made ‘a number of years ago’.

Guy Otten (pictured) - one of 11 candidates announced last week - said his name will appear on the ballot on February 29, but that he will not be campaigning.

He did not expand on the content of the social media posts, nor did the party.

The retired lawyer and tribunal judge said: “The Green message is too urgent and too important to be distracted by some regrettable social media posts I made a number of years ago. In the interests of the Green Party I have decided to leave the stage. As nominations have now closed, my name will still appear on the ballot.

“However, I will not take part in any media interviews or join any platforms for hustings, and neither will I be involved in any campaigning.

“I am really delighted that the Green Party is on the verge of making major breakthroughs in a number of constituencies in the next general election.

“Strong Green representation in parliament is needed now more than ever.”

A Green Party spokesperson said: “The Rochdale Green Party candidate has said that he has ‘decided to leave the stage’ following social media posts made some years ago.

“As nominations have now closed, his name will still appear on the ballot. However, he will not take part in any campaigning between now and polling day.

“We do not comment on disciplinary matters regarding Green Party members. These are internal matters.”