Community champion and legal professional pledges to put people before politics Hertsmere Labour is proud to announce Bala Briggs Mere as the party’s candidate for the forthcoming Borehamwood Brookmeadow by-election.

Full statement

A long-time community activist and legal professional, Bala brings with her a wealth of experience in public service, charity work, and grassroots volunteering. She has supported food banks across London and Hertfordshire, advised families through helpline and legal work, and stood up for the rights of vulnerable people both here in the UK and internationally.

Bala said:

“I’m standing because I care deeply about restoring trust in politics, protecting our public services, and creating real opportunities for young people and families. I’ve worked with charities, supported the elderly and homeless, and helped families facing real hardship. That’s the same commitment I want to bring to the Council – practical help, a listening ear, and strong advocacy.”

Originally from London, Bala spent part of her childhood in Nigeria before returning to the UK. She holds a Master’s degree in Law from the University of Wolverhampton, is a qualified barrister in Nigeria, and is an active member of both the Nigeria and International Bar Associations. She has also served as an adviser to senior officials in Nigeria’s Ministry of Women’s Affairs and Ministry of Commerce.

Locally, Bala has worked as a Legal and Housing Adviser for Age UK Barnet and as a Social Prescribing Link Worker with a GP Federation, helping residents access support for social and health issues. She currently volunteers with multiple local and national charities including Family Lives, Burnt Oak Community Food Bank, Potters Bar Food Bank, and a homeless charity in Holborn.

“Whether I’m answering a helpline call, packing food parcels, or helping someone stay in their home, I feel most fulfilled when I’m standing up for others. It’s why I joined the Labour Party, and it’s why I’m proud to stand as a Labour candidate.”

The Brookmeadow by-election was triggered just 24 hours after the sad passing of Cllr Rabbi Alan Plancey, before many in the community had even had time to grieve. Hertsmere Labour can confirm that the formal by-election request was submitted by the local Reform UK branch chair and his wife, with other local parties observing the usual convention of waiting until the official mourning period had passed.

“This by-election didn’t need to happen now,” Bala said. “It was forced through at completely the wrong time, with no thought for the grieving family or community – and no thought for the cost either. To me, politics should always be about people, not about power.”