Green Party candidate pulls out of by-election hours after being announced

Key developments are emerging from the global stage. Green Party candidate pulls out of by-election15 minutes ago Share Save Add as preferred on GoogleJonny HumphriesandGeorgie Docker ,North WestGreen PartyChris Kennedy has pulled out of the Makerfield by-election just hours after he was announced as the Green Party's candidateThe Green Party's candidate for next month's Makerfield by-election has withdrawn from the contest only hours after he was announced. Chris Kennedy, a registered nurse and children's safeguarding specialist, has pulled out of the process due to "personal and family reasons", the party has confirmed. "We wish Chris the best and understand that family has to come first," a Green Party spokesperson said.

It will be reopening candidate nominations later. The by-election in the Greater Manchester constituency on 18 June was triggered by the resignation of Labour MP Josh Simons. Simons said he was stepping down to allow Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham the opportunity to contest the seat and, if successful, make a return to Westminster as an MP.

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Earlier, Green Party leader Zack Polanski said: "Chris will be a fantastic candidate and representative for Makerfield. "This election is about who is making the case for lower bills, warmer and more affordable homes, and a greener and fairer economy. "Five other parties have so far announced their candidates:Andy Burnham, the Labour PartyAlan "Howlin" Laud Hope, The Official Monster Raving Loony PartyRobert Kenyon, Reform UKRebecca Shepherd, Restore BritainMichael Winstanley, the Conservative PartyListen to the best of Radio Manchester on Sounds and follow Manchester on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

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The development has drawn wide international attention, with diplomatic circles watching closely.