Opposition leaders react to Walsall Council leader’s shock resignation
Opposition leaders at Walsall Council have called for change within the Conservative-led authority following the sudden resignation of its leader.
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Leaders councillor Aftab Nawaz of the Independent group and councillor Matt Ward of the Labour group have both shared their reaction in the wake of Garry Perry’s shock resignation.
Councillor Perry, Conservative, announced his departure in a statement on Wednesday (May 21), which condemned "a sustained campaign of political attrition" and "bullying dressed up as politics".
Councillor Perry said that values such as "integrity and transparency are no longer shared" and he "refused to play the game of self-preservation" in order to stay in office.
Councillor Perry’s deputy, Councillor Adrian Andrew, has now stepped in as acting leader of the council until a new one is chosen.
Councillor Aftab Nawaz has said that Walsall needs a bigger change than just a change of leader.
He said: “I’m shocked by what’s happened, but I’m not surprised.
“There’s no doubt that the restructuring has been really, really unpopular. Not only with the opposition but also those who are part of the ruling party.
“I felt, and in talking to some of the Conservatives, that the council wasn’t listening to elected members.
“On a personal level, I wish Garry the very best. I know his heart has always been to make things better for the council, but we move on. One Conservative is the same as another Conservative.
“They are still running Walsall Council and we need to do everything we can to remove them. Walsall needs a bigger change than just a change of leader.”
Councillor Matt Ward has called on the Conservative Party to stage an intervention.
He said: “Councillor Perry’s resignation under such serious and troubling circumstances is deeply concerning.
“His letter paints a picture of internal turmoil and political infighting within the Conservative leadership of Walsall Council. This is not just a local issue—it is a matter of public trust and democratic accountability.
“The national Conservative Party must now take urgent responsibility. They must investigate the claims made and intervene in the leadership process to restore credibility and integrity.
“Residents in Walsall deserve better than secrecy, whispers, and power struggles behind closed doors.
“Walsall Labour Group will continue to stand up for transparency, integrity and service to the public above all else. The people of our borough deserve nothing less.”
