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Nigel Farage recently introduced 29 new councillors who have joined Reform UK, as he seeks to steer his party away from the turmoil caused by the suspension of MP Rupert Lowe. This announcement comes amidst ongoing tensions within the party regarding Lowe’s allegations and his subsequent ousting.
Farage also addressed the “online abuse” and “outright racism” that have been directed at Zia Yusuf, the chair of Reform UK, highlighting the internal divisions that have surfaced following Lowe’s suspension.
The councillors welcomed into Reform UK include 15 who have left the Conservative Party, one who departed from the Liberal Democrats, and a selection of independents, including a councillor from Cheshire who previously left Labour over issues related to transgender policy. During the introduction event, Farage emphasized the need for experienced members, referring to them as “old lags.”
In his speech, Farage acknowledged the discord sparked by the conflict with Lowe but maintained that the dissatisfaction was largely peripheral. He indicated that a barrister’s report regarding the allegations against Lowe might soon be finalized.
“We’ve experienced a bit of turbulence over the last couple of weeks,” Farage stated, showing signs of frustration when pressed by journalists about Lowe. “Our concerns about a member of parliament’s behavior prompted us to suspend his whip while we investigate the serious complaints we received. We are awaiting an independent review from the king’s council.”
When questioned about the backlash against Yusuf, who has been a focal point for criticism from disgruntled members, Farage drew a distinction between the abuse directed at Yusuf and remarks made by another MP, Lee Anderson, concerning London Mayor Sadiq Khan. Anderson joined Reform UK after losing the Conservative whip due to comments deemed Islamophobic.
Reports from The Guardian reveal that online discussions among certain Reform UK groups have targeted Yusuf with comments that are notably influenced by his Muslim identity.
In response to whether members of Reform UK were behind the abuse of Yusuf, Farage suggested that the derogatory remarks might not necessarily originate from party members. “I believe there is a deliberate effort out there to incite negativity, and I strongly oppose it,” he remarked. “I’ve consistently maintained that the parties I lead must be non-racist and non-sectarian, and I will continue to uphold that standard.”
The internal strife within Reform UK has intensified over the last two weeks due to the fallout between Farage and Lowe. Lowe was expelled following allegations of bullying, a situation that he claims has been manipulated to silence his criticisms of Farage regarding immigration policy.
Despite Lowe’s assertions of innocence, saying there is “zero credible evidence” against him, the rift has led to a loss of members, including Maria Bowtell, a councillor from Yorkshire who announced her decision to remain as an independent for the duration of her term.
Source
www.theguardian.com