Council leader survives a no confidence vote following controversy and calls for her resignation.
Eleanor Wills became leader four months ago. Now, some wanted her to resign, and Liam Billington called for a meeting, stating her election lacked democracy.
The Labour NEC chose Wills for leadership and also picked cabinet members. Billington called this decision a disgrace, adding that NEC choices now face suspension following a WhatsApp message problem.
Andrew Gwynne lost his government job, and twelve local councillors got suspended from Labour. Councillors Reid, Naylor, and Newton resigned as well, due to the WhatsApp issues.
Billington wants a council for residents, arguing an outside group controls them. He believes this group cares about the pension fund, which he believes is wrong for people.
Tory members supported the motion, saying it’s not about Wills’ skills, but about how she became leader. Labour backed Wills, calling the motion weak.
Tafheen Sharif praised Wills’ leadership. Ged Cooney blamed Denton councillors for the scandal and criticized leaked messages that angered the public.
Cooney agreed the NEC should not choose leaders. Vincent Ricci criticized the NEC too, stating they kicked him out of the WhatsApp group in 2022. He claimed he has messages on his phone.
Ricci says he’s innocent and sent no messages. Eleanor Wills spoke about “salacious things” and said she is clearing up rumors.
Wills said she knew nothing about messages. She stated she was the only leader candidate and said she will continue to do what is right.
Wills’ speech received cheers. She won the no confidence vote and continues as council leader. The motion was tabled following chaos in the borough.