In a move that has outraged residents and sparked fierce criticism, the Conservative-led Kent County Council (KCC) has been accused of undermining democracy by voting to scrap the county elections scheduled for May 1. The decision, which many see as a desperate attempt to cling to power, has been branded “shameful” and “self-centred” by critics across the political spectrum.
The council, which boasts 81 members – 51 of whom are Conservatives – has been accused of prioritising itsown political survival over the will of the people. This comes after the party suffered catastrophic losses both nationally and locally, with its presence wiped out in district councils and delivering its worst election result in a generation.
Protests Outside County Hall: “Don’t Kill Democracy!”
Outside County Hall, furious demonstrators chanted slogans such as “don’t kill democracy!” as councillors gathered for an extraordinary meeting on January 9. The protesters voiced opposition to the government’s controversial “Devolution Revolution,” which would abolish all 14 councils in Kent and replace them with a single elected mayor and unitary authorities.
The fast-tracked approach, championed by KCC leader Roger Gough, would delay the May 1 elections and grant greater powers to a mayoral system – a prospect many see as a blatant power grab. Critics say the changes are being rushed through without proper public consultation, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
Stuart Jeffery, leader of the Green Party at Maidstone Council, condemned the plans, saying, “Stopping the elections is killing democracy. The public deserves a say in decisions that will fundamentally reshape local governance.”
A Lucrative Payday for Conservative Leadership
Critics have pointed out that scrapping elections is not only a cynical attempt to avoid electoral defeat but also allows the Conservative cabinet members to continue drawing their lucrative salaries and benefits. Cabinet members at KCC earn a minimum of £26,000 per year, plus expenses – a figure significantly higher than the average salary in Kent for what is effectively a part time job plus all travelling expenses Meanwhile, council leader Roger Gough earns over £45,000 annually, also with additional allowances.
David Wimble, Election Coordinator for the Folkestone, Hythe, and Romney Marsh Reform UK Party, blasted the decision: “The Conservatives are clearly protecting their pay packets while disregarding the public’s right to vote. They’re treating democracy as expendable and focusing on their financial interests.”
He continued: “While I’m not saying a mayoral system is inherently wrong, the way they’re going about this is appalling. Democracy states there should be elections, and any new council should determine the future direction – not an outgoing, self-serving group of councillors.”
Opposition Groups Fight Back
Opposition councillors are fighting to stop the postponement of elections. Liberal Democrat group leader Antony Hook announced several proposed amendments to Conservative plans, including demands for elections to proceed as scheduled, greater transparency in decision-making, and public-led change rather than secretive deals.
“This is about more than party politics; it’s about preserving the integrity of our democratic system,” Hook said. “The Conservatives know they are facing a wipeout, and they are moving the goalposts to protect their own interests.”
Residents Left in the Dark
Another major concern voiced by protesters is the lack of transparency surrounding these sweeping changes. Many residents feel they’ve been left in the dark about how the Devolution Revolution will affect their communities. The government’s White Paper, presented by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, promises streamlined services and cost savings, but critics argue that such benefits remain unproven.
“It feels like they’re forcing these changes on us without asking what we want,” said one demonstrator. “It’s our communities at stake, and we’ve had no say in the matter.”
The Biggest Shake-Up in 50 Years
If implemented, the Devolution Revolution would represent the most dramatic overhaul of Kent’s local governance in half a century. While proponents argue that a unified structure will improve efficiency, opponents fear it will strip local areas of their unique identities and reduce accountability to residents.
For now, the council leadership faces mounting pressure to reverse its decision. With public trust already in decline and opposition growing, the question remains whether Kent County Council will heed the voices of its constituents – or continue down this divisive path.
The Fallout: A Party in Freefall
The Conservatives’ support in Kent is at an all-time low, both locally and nationally. Scrapping elections to avoid a crushing defeat might buy them some time, but it risks further alienating voters in the long run. Residents across the county are watching closely – and if there’s one thing this saga has made clear, it’s that the people of Kent will not forget this betrayal of democracy.