Councillor Anthony Okereke has been re-elected as Leader of the Royal Borough of Greenwich Council at the authority's annual meeting, securing a significant majority for the Labour Group. The Labour Group holds 35 out of 56 council seats, representing 63.64% of the council's composition. The Green Group has 13 councillors (23.64%), and the Conservative Group has 6 councillors (10.91%).
Councillor Okereke's re-election was confirmed on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, following a nomination by Councillor Jane Dickenson and a second from Councillor Lewis Hurst. The decision was made via a show of hands.
Following his re-election, Councillor Okereke announced the Cabinet for the 2026-2027 municipal year. Councillor Jackie Smith has been appointed as Deputy Leader. The full membership of the Cabinet, with portfolios assigned across key areas including Housing, Finance & Resources, Health & Adult Social Care, Community Safety, Planning & Development, Economy, Culture, Transport, and Children's Services, was also noted.
The council also noted the appointments of Council Chief Whip, Deputy Chief Whip, and leaders of opposition groups. Councillor Tamasin Rhymes will lead the Opposition Green Group, and Councillor Matt Hartley will lead the Opposition Conservative Group.
Councillor Rhymes offered a welcoming statement, saying, We would like, Madam Mayor, just to thank you for your service to the Borough over the last year, to welcome David to his new role, and to look forward to our new year all working together.
Councillor Hartley, however, raised concerns, stating that the administration needs to start listening
after the Labour group lost seats in the recent elections. He added that the Conservative group would always be prepared to work across party lines to get the right outcomes for residents
where agreement is possible, and continue to provide robust opposition and scrutiny
where they cannot agree.
Further details on the meeting proceedings and reports can be found in the Public reports pack and the Supplementary Agenda.
