The Reform UK crisis deepened today as another councillor left Kent County Council just hours before a key meeting. The resignation added fresh turmoil to a party already struggling to maintain control and unity.
Councillor Isabella Kemp, who represents Sheppey, changed her status to Independent on the council’s website. Her decision reflects growing unrest and highlights how the Reform UK crisis continues to shake local government in Kent.
Thursday’s full council meeting marked the first since leaked footage caused chaos last month. That video showed council leader Linden Kemkaran scolding backbench members during an online session. The fallout sparked suspensions and intensified the Reform UK crisis among party ranks.
Last week, councillors Bill Barrett, Oliver Bradshaw, Paul Thomas, and Brian Black lost their positions after internal investigations. Their expulsions further weakened the party’s majority and revealed deeper divisions. Political observers say these actions have accelerated the Reform UK crisis by exposing mistrust within the leadership.
During the meeting, Paul Thomas, now independent, pressed officials about long-running road closures. He accused leaders of ignoring residents who endured six weeks without bus services. He called for an independent inquiry, saying the council must act transparently to rebuild public trust during the Reform UK crisis.
Cabinet Member for Highways and Transport Peter Osborne responded that the council cannot stop emergency roadworks. Still, residents continue to express frustration, demanding quicker repairs and better communication.
Opposition parties also targeted the ruling group. Green Party leader Mark Hood compared the Reform UK crisis to the television show “The Traitors,” joking that councillors wait to see who will be expelled next.
Liberal Democrat leader Antony Hook described the situation as a “political crisis.” He claimed some councillors placed bets on whether the administration would survive until Christmas. He urged the group to act responsibly and avoid turning Kent County Council into a national joke.
In reply, Kemkaran defended her leadership and rejected claims of weakness. She said her team remains “leaner but stronger” after recent challenges. However, many councillors doubt her optimism as the Reform UK crisis continues to damage confidence and divide the party.
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