Politics on planet earth can get gloomy, so we’re livening things up with a Q&A with “intergalactic space warrior”, Count Binface.
The self-proclaimed alien from planet Sigma IX, has made a name for himself in UK politics with his whimsical and humorous campaigns. First appearing in 2017 to run against then prime minister Theresa May in his previous incarnation, Lord Buckethead, he reemerged to challenge Boris Johnson and later finished ninth out of 20 candidates in the 2021 London mayoral election. Known for outlandish promises like capping croissant prices and renaming London Bridge after the Fleabag creator Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Count Binface’s campaigns are a blend of satire and serious commentary, reminding us that democracy can also be fun and absurd.
Will you run in the next general election?
I am!
What would you say to young people voting for the first time?
Do use your vote, one way or another. Democracy is a rare and precious thing, and believe me, even in a First-Past-The-Post system, every vote counts. If young people go to the polling booths, politicians will take note and tailor their policies in the future. At a time when democracy is under threat all over the planet, it’s more important than ever to cherish and celebrate it. Strange as it may seem, it’s no longer a given.
Why do you think so many young people are disengaged from politics?
There are all kinds of reasons. Older people are more likely to vote, so politicians cynically aim their policies at the elderly. That puts off young people, as does the unpleasant game-playing of Westminster politicians and the fact that far too many modern politicians are in it for the wrong reasons. I’d say young people are fully engaged with politics, they’re just sick of politicians. The current ruling class generation are a pale shadow of their predecessors. Here’s hoping today’s kids can sort the mess out.
What do you think has been your biggest impact on UK politics? And what more do you hope to achieve?
Good question. I hope my latest election has had the biggest impact: scoring 24,260 votes in the London Mayoral Election was a proud achievement, especially because I defeated the fascists of Britain First. The mayor Sadiq Khan called this ‘yet another reason to love London’. I’d love to do more and to bring a bit of hope, and a laugh, to politics further afield. And I hope I can continue to defend and celebrate the brilliance of British democracy, which gives everyone the right to stand for office, no matter what their platform (or planet of origin.)
What are the policies you are prioritising in the next campaign?
That would be telling! I’ll be revealing my manifesto soon. Watch this hyperspace…
What is the most striking thing you have experienced in your years of galactic adventures?
The Lovejoy box set. Check it out. It’s incredible.
How uncomfortable is wearing a bin every day?
You have no idea.
If you want to know more about how satirical candidates like Count Binface impact democracy read this story.
Feature image: Count Binface and other satirical candidate Hawling Laud Hope. Photo credit: Monster Raving Looney Party official website.