In the run up to the General Election we will be giving you the opportunity to get to know some of our candidates. Our key candidates and spokespeople can be found here.
This year we will be standing in over 90% of seats in England and Wales.
Our candidate for Tooting: Esther Obiri-Darko
Why are you standing for the Green Party in Tooting?
Tooting has been my home for a number of years. It is a vibrant and diverse community, with so much to offer. I know it sounds utterly cliche, but I want to give back to the community. I wanted to be of service to those that live here and champion those voices that are rarely heard.
What are your three top priorities if elected?
a. To restore the obligation on the Government to provide a comprehensive health service;and re-establish public accountability of the NHS.
b. Ensure there are more facilities and services available to the young people in the area and for families.
c. Making renting a fairer option for both tenants and landlords
What made you want to get involved in politics?
When I looked at the political landscape I didn't see anyone that represented me or stood fro the things that I believed in. I decided to stop complaining and do something about it.
What's your favorite thing about your constituency?
Last Sunday I was in one of the local restaurants and the man in front of me didn't have enough money to pay for his take away meal. He offered to go and get cash from the bank machine, the owner waved away his card and gave him his £14 meal for free. This is not the first time I've seen such acts kindness in my area and it made swell with pride that I lived in Tooting.
Who is your political hero?
He is not a politician but a philosopher. Noam Chomsky. When I first listened to him lecture, it was like I had met a long lost friend. He was the first person who was articulating what I felt about social justice and was challenging society's most powerful factions and their institutions in a meaningful way.