Sutton Councillor Quits Liberal Democrats, Citing 'Toxic' Culture and Racism
In a dramatic move, Patrick Ogbonna, a Liberal Democrat councillor in Sutton, has resigned from the party, delivering a scathing critique of its internal culture. Ogbonna, who has represented The Wrythe ward since 2022, announced his departure via a fiery email sent to all 54 fellow councillors, describing the group as "toxic" and accusing it of racism and an unhealthy obsession with leafleting targets.
Explosive Email Details Grievances
Ogbonna's email singled out Council Leader Barry Lewis, criticizing him for what he perceived as an excessive focus on political leafleting. He recounted a meeting where Lewis allegedly labeled him "the worst performing candidate in the history of the Lib Dems" due to his leafleting and canvassing ratio. Ogbonna, a working father and primary carer to his five-year-old daughter, emphasized that family remains his priority, unlike some party members who are less encumbered by childcare responsibilities.
He argued that the party sets "leafletting targets" without consulting individuals or considering their personal circumstances, treating members as a "homogeneous mass." Ogbonna claimed Lewis threatened to place him on a "reserve list" to appoint someone more prolific in leafleting, prompting Ogbonna to defiantly reject the suggestion, stating, "I know my worth—my parents didn't raise no fool."
Allegations of Racism and Unconscious Bias
As the sole Black member of Sutton Council, Ogbonna did not hold back in accusing the Liberal Democrat administration of "racism and unconscious bias." He described the party's culture as toxic, alleging that some members are illiberal, two-faced, or driven by self-interest rather than a commitment to serving residents. This criticism adds to a growing list of internal issues for the party, which has controlled Sutton Council since 1990.
Ogbonna also pointed to the departure of former councillor David Bartolucci, the ex-Deputy Council Leader, as a turning point. Bartolucci left the council last year after growing disillusioned with the party, triggering a by-election in Sutton Central that was won by the Lib Dems with Richard Choi taking the seat.
Focus on Policies and Personal Belittlement
Beyond leafleting and racism, Ogbonna criticized the administration for prioritizing policies like trees, 20mph zones, and grass verges over residents' more pressing concerns. He claimed the party treats "grown adults as if they are children," calling this behavior "totally unacceptable." Additionally, he expressed frustration at being repeatedly belittled for winning his seat by a "mere 50 votes," suggesting a lack of respect for his electoral achievements.
Despite his anger, Ogbonna acknowledged some positive relationships within the party, stating, "To those in the party who actually know me, I respect you and it's been a pleasure working alongside you." He also extended respect to opposition members, criticizing the term "opposition" for its tribal connotations.
Council Meeting Highlights Internal Tensions
Ogbonna's resignation email came just hours after Sutton's last council meeting before the local elections on Monday, March 2. The meeting, which approved the 2026/27 budget with a 4.99% council tax increase, also featured heated discussions on leafleting. Resident Richard Johnson urged Council Leader Lewis to reconsider the party's practice of "bombarding" households with political leaflets, citing environmental concerns. Lewis defended the approach, arguing that online leafleting is more prone to disinformation.
Independent Beddington councillor Nick Mattey, a former Lib Dem, echoed Ogbonna's sentiments, labeling the party "a leafleting cult." Mattey criticized the committee system for stifling independent thought, suggesting it encourages silence in exchange for allowances, and made a provocative comparison to North Korea. Speaking after the meeting, Mattey noted that relations within the Sutton Liberal Democrats have "turned very nasty," with high-profile departures and deselections raising questions about internal conflict.
Future Plans and Party Response
Ogbonna will remain a councillor and is considering whether to stand as an independent in the upcoming local elections on Thursday, May 7. His departure reduces the Lib Dems' seats on Sutton Council to 28, though they maintain their overall majority.
In response to the resignation, a spokesperson for Sutton Liberal Democrats expressed regret, stating, "We have tried to support Patrick to make it work consistently for four years. It is with deep regret that he feels unable to fulfil all his duties under the compact and so he will not be a Liberal Democrat candidate this time." The spokesperson emphasized the party's pride in door-to-door engagement with residents, a core part of their councillor compact.
This incident underscores ongoing tensions within the Sutton Liberal Democrats as they approach the May elections, with issues of culture, representation, and political strategy coming to the forefront.
