Lambeth Liberal Democrat leader Donna Harris announces she is stepping down

Councillor Donna Harris, Leader of the Liberal Democrats in Lambeth, has written to members of her local party saying she will not stand in the 2026 elections. This is for physical health reasons.

Cllr Harris has led the Liberal Democrat group on Lambeth Council for almost four years. The party has relentlessly challenged the Labour administration including on:

housing repairs, including dangerous damp and mould in Council homes

failures in consultation on traffic schemes

the use of non-disclosure agreements to silence Lambeth leaseholders

Harris has also played a key role in pushing the Council to strengthen its response to violence against women and girls, securing Lambeth’s participation in the White Ribbon Campaign.

She has also campaigned for better support for asylum seekers and fair treatment of communities across the borough.

Cllr Harris said her decision was due to ongoing physical health issues.

This has been an incredibly difficult and heartbreaking decision.

I have been unwell for some time, and after careful reflection I’ve had to accept that committing to another four-year term would risk my health. It’s not a decision I have taken lightly, but it is the responsible one.”

The Lambeth Liberal Democrats have selected former Streatham Hill Councillor Kita Ogden as their new candidate for Streatham Hill West and Thornton ward alongside incumbent Cllr Matthew Bryant.

Cllr Harris said she would continue actively to support Liberal Democrat Councillors and candidates across Lambeth.

“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved as a small group that has consistently punched above its weight,” she added.

“Lambeth Liberal Democrats are in an excellent position going into next year’s elections, at a time when Labour is disappointing its supporters nationally and losing trust locally.

“Residents are looking for a credible, hardworking alternative to turn Lambeth into a Council that actually listens to local people. We are there to provide just that.”

Brixton Buzz would like to wish Donna Harris the very best for the future.