The Conservative Party has closed applications for its candidate in the upcoming 2028 mayoral election for London, with four individuals publicly declaring their intention to run. The party, which has not held the mayoralty since Boris Johnson's second term ended in 2016, is seeking to challenge the incumbent Labour Mayor Sadiq Khan.
Shifting Political Landscape
The next mayoral election is scheduled for May 2028, but the race is already underway. The party's performance in recent local elections, where they regained traditional strongholds, has fueled optimism. Gareth Bacon MP, shadow minister for London, stated at the Conservative Party conference that the party had previously treated the mayoral race as a "paper candidacy" and had "cut Susan Hall adrift" in the 2024 election. He described Khan as "toxic and divisive."
The Contenders
Several other parties are also preparing for the election. Reform UK selected Leila Cunningham as their candidate in January. For the Liberal Democrats, Sarah Olney MP and Rob Blackie are vying for the nomination.
Festus Akinbusoye
Festus Akinbusoye, a former Bedfordshire police and crime commissioner (2021-2024) and newly elected member of Westminster City Council, is among the Conservative hopefuls. Having moved to London at age 13, Akinbusoye emphasized the need to make London more affordable and support its residents. He stated, "I want to be the most pro-policing, pro-house building, pro-business, pro-family, pro-growth mayor London has ever had."
Andrew Boff
Andrew Boff, who has served on the London Assembly since 2008, is running again for the nomination. Boff highlighted his focus on housing and stated his intention to "get rid of the outward extension of the Ulez." He plans to address the family housing crisis by allocating more funds for building family-sized homes and making land available for young people interested in self-building.
Alex Challoner
Alex Challoner, a public affairs professional who has lived in London for 35 years, is proposing policies aimed at curbing fare dodging on public transport through a "Fare Watch" system. He also advocates for a "London Plan that you can read in an afternoon" and a VAT cut for gyms and London breweries.
Sir James Cleverly MP
Sir James Cleverly MP, a former home secretary and foreign secretary, is considered a strong contender. Having previously served as a London Assembly member and head of the London Fire Authority, he aims to be a "real champion for London." Cleverly stated his priority would be ensuring people are safe on the streets and can afford to live in the city, asserting that "party political affiliations are less important than someone with a real plan."
The final shortlist of two candidates is expected to be announced on November 20.