Andreas Michli, a prominent health and fitness entrepreneur, has officially thrown his hat into the ring for the upcoming 2024 London mayoral elections. The independent candidate revealed that his decision to enter the political arena was catalyzed by what he perceives as the transformative impact of the lockdown experience.
Previously facing legal repercussions for his attempt to keep his north London gym operational during lockdown, Mr. Michli saw the fines overturned in court. The 37-year-old Londoner expresses a dissenting viewpoint on lockdown measures and criticizes what he deems as “deeply unpopular policies” affecting the population, including the expansion of the Ultra Low Emission Zone (Ulez) and the implementation of Low Traffic Neighbourhoods (LTNs).
Mr. Michli, in an interview with BBC News, outlined his intention to eliminate Ulez, reverse the expansion of LTNs, and put a halt to net-zero targets if elected as mayor. Similar sentiments are echoed by mayoral candidates from the Conservative Party and Reform UK.
Alongside these policy stances, Mr. Michli proposes enhancing the professionalization of the Metropolitan Police. His focus lies on improving the physical fitness and martial skills of police officers.
When questioned about his overarching approach to governance, Mr. Michli emphasized a health-centric perspective. “My health policies mirror my political approach. Rather than instructing people to adopt a healthier lifestyle, I envision the mayor’s office offering tangible support, such as free gym memberships and healthy eating plans for every citizen,” he explained.
Central to his campaign is the theme of responsibility, extending to the Metropolitan Police’s accountability to the communities they serve and the mayor’s obligation to consult with Londoners on policies impacting their lives.
Six other candidates have also been selected for the London mayoral elections, representing various political affiliations. These include Rob Blackie (Liberal Democrats), Natalie Campbell (Independent), Howard Cox (Independent), Zoe Garbett (Green Party), Susan Hall (Conservative Party), and the incumbent Sadiq Khan (Labour Party).
The mayoral elections are scheduled for 2 May, offering Londoners a diverse range of candidates and policy proposals to consider.
