Infighting Erupts in Britain's Anti-Immigration Party, Sparking Police Involvement

Reform U.K. faces its biggest crisis yet as police investigate claims of bullying and threats against senior officials within the party.

The internal struggle of Reform U.K., the right-wing party led by Nigel Farage, has escalated dramatically, leading to police involvement over accusations against one of its lawmakers. Rupert Lowe, who has recently critiqued Farage's leadership, is at the center of allegations including making threats of physical violence against the party’s chairman, Zia Yusuf.

In a formal statement, the party announced that it had referred these serious allegations to law enforcement. Alongside the violence claims, Lowe is also under investigation for reportedly bullying female staff members, prompting his suspension.

Lowe has publicly denied all allegations, describing them as “vexatious,” especially following his critical remarks towards Farage and party dynamics in recent months.

Following a surge in opinion polls where Reform U.K. has outpaced the Conservative Party and is gaining on the governing Labour Party led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, this crisis is particularly significant. Historically, parties under Farage’s leadership have struggled with internal conflicts, and these latest events suggest that Reform U.K. may be facing a similar fate.

The ongoing tensions not only challenge the party's unity but also raise questions about its future in British politics as it grapples with these internal divisions and public scrutiny.