Festus Akinbusoye: I’m more fun than Cleverly 

Festus Akinbusoye is seeking to beat Conservative heavyweight James Cleverly to become the party’s candidate for London mayor in 2028. He is pitching himself as a fresh, optimistic candidate who would prioritise policing, housebuilding, business and entertainment, though he would then face the challenge of raising his profile and taking on the incumbent or another Labour candidate.

Akinbusoye, elected to Westminster Council in May, previously served for three years as Bedfordshire’s police and crime commissioner and says he has entrepreneurial experience dating back to age 16. His “A London Yes Plan” proposes using government powers to support housing starts, while his claims to be the “most pro-fun” candidate have been tested by controversy over Westminster’s proposed licensing rules for standing drinkers and pubs.