Streatham South Councillor - John Kazantzis

Councillor John Kazantzis

When and why did you first become interested in politics?
In the 1980s in response to Thatcherism.

The Tory government at the time was perpetuating inequality and fostering appalling selfishness. I wanted to see a more equal and fairer society

What inspired you to become a councillor?
I wanted to do more for my community and change it for the better.

Has it been worth it?
Yes

What’s your greatest fear and your greatest hope?
That I don’t achieve all I can for my community or how your best intentions get misinterpreted. Most people don’t go into local politics to get something for ourselves but politics has a bad reputation. My greatest hope is that I am able to make a difference that changes people’s lives for the better.

What’s the first thing you would do if you ruled the world for a day?
Make all war illegal.

What single thing would most improve your area?
Better pavements they are a mess.

What’s your favourite film?
Toy Story, these days I only get to watch kids films since I have had children.

What does your council do particularly well?
It is improving on equalities issues but there is still some way to go.

What do you consider your greatest political triumph?
When I first got elected. I was grateful for the opportunity to put my ideas into action, and to speak up for my community.

What is the biggest problem with local government today?
Unwieldy bureaucracy

How would you solve it?
Making sure resources are used more effectively making sure we get the best and the money is spent on services to residents action not words

Who is your political hero, and why?
Nelson Mandela. He showed courage in the face of adversity. On release from prison, when he could so easily have sought revenge, instead he sought reconciliation and built the new democratic South Africa.

When and where are you most happy?
Taking my kids to play in the park

What’s your theme song, and why?
Between the Wars by Billy Bragg. A good socialist song!

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