Reform UK’s internal tensions came to light this week after Zia Yusuf abruptly resigned as chairman, only to return days later. The controversy began when Yusuf criticized MP Sarah Pochin for pushing a burka ban, calling her move “dumb.” However, after a public fallout, leader Nigel Farage forgave him, urging him not to repeat the mistake.
Yusuf initially stepped down last week, stating that working for Reform UK was no longer “a good use of his time.” Surprisingly, he reversed his decision just two days later, agreeing to lead the party’s new Doge unit instead. This team, inspired by a U.S. efficiency initiative, will focus on reducing wasteful spending in councils under Reform’s control.
Speaking in Port Talbot, Farage admitted Yusuf had “lost his rag” and caused a crisis. He acknowledged Yusuf’s “intemperate comments” but emphasized forgiveness. “I forgave him,” Farage said, “but I told him not to do it again.” Meanwhile, Yusuf blamed exhaustion for his social media outburst, dismissing the incident as a “storm in a teacup.”
The dispute started when Pochin, MP for Runcorn and Helsby, questioned Prime Minister Keir Starmer about banning the burka. Yusuf, a Muslim, quickly condemned her stance, arguing that Reform UK had no such policy. Later, he clarified that while he personally might support banning face coverings in public, he opposed singling out the burka.
Critics, including Labour’s Naz Shah, accused Pochin of “click-bait, dog-whistle politics.” Shah pointed out that only 0.4% of Pochin’s constituency are Muslim women, making the issue irrelevant locally. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch weighed in, stating people should wear what they choose unless security requires otherwise.
Reform UK’s internal tensions highlight the party’s struggle to balance its policies with public perception. Yusuf’s swift return suggests the party is keen to move past the drama. Yet, the debate over religious clothing continues to spark division.
As Reform UK’s internal tensions simmer, the party must now focus on unity ahead of future elections. Whether this incident will have lasting effects remains unclear, but for now, Farage’s quick forgiveness has eased the immediate fallout.
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