In a surprising turn of events, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk has called for a leadership overhaul within Reform UK, stating that Nigel Farage, the party’s founder and leader, “does not have what it takes” to lead the party. Musk’s comments come amidst a heated dispute over jailed far-right activist Tommy Robinson, marking a significant rift between the tech mogul and the prominent British politician.
Musk’s Critique and Endorsement of Rupert Lowe
Taking to his social media platform X (formerly Twitter), Musk declared:
“The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesn’t have what it takes.”
He further hinted at Rupert Lowe, a Reform MP and former chairman of Southampton FC, as a potential replacement, stating:
“I have not met Rupert Lowe, but his statements online that I have read so far make a lot of sense.”
This endorsement blindsided Farage, who responded with measured defiance:
“Elon is a remarkable individual, but on this, I disagree. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform, and I never sell out my principles.”
The Tommy Robinson Dispute
The fallout appears to have stemmed from Musk’s public support for Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon. Robinson is currently serving an 18-month prison sentence for contempt of court. Musk had shared posts on X advocating for Robinson’s release, framing him as someone who “fought against grooming gangs.”
Farage, however, pushed back, stating:
“Robinson is in prison for contempt of court, not for fighting grooming gangs. We’re a political party aiming to win the next general election. He’s not what we need.”
This disagreement reportedly led Musk to reconsider his backing of Farage, despite recent meetings at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago mansion, where Farage and Reform’s treasurer, Nick Candy, discussed party financing and strategy with Musk.
Reform UK’s Prospects Without Farage
Political observers have questioned the impact of Musk’s criticism on Reform UK’s prospects. Luke Tryl, UK director at More in Common, noted:
“Absent Farage, Reform would have been a postmark in history post-election and likely failed to win seats. Like him or not, he has an ability to connect with people most politicians can’t reach.”
Raheem Kassam, a former Farage aide and Breitbart editor, was less diplomatic, responding to Musk’s remarks with:
“You are a f****** moron.”
Musk’s Broader Critiques of UK Leadership
Beyond the Robinson issue, Musk has sparked further controversy with incendiary posts targeting key UK political figures. He accused Home Office Minister Jess Phillips of failing to address child exploitation in Oldham and claimed Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer neglected to bring “rape gangs” to justice during his tenure as director of public prosecutions.
Farage defended Musk’s right to express controversial opinions, stating:
“We may find it offensive, but it’s a good thing, not a bad thing. Free speech is back under Elon’s ownership of X.”
In contrast, Labour’s shadow health secretary, Wes Streeting, called Musk’s claims a “disgraceful smear” and highlighted Labour’s efforts to support abuse victims.
A Strained Alliance
Despite Musk’s scathing critique, Farage has sought to maintain a cordial stance towards the billionaire, describing him as a “hero figure” and applauding his efforts to restore open debate on X. However, the feud over Tommy Robinson underscores a growing divide that could impact both Reform UK’s future and Musk’s potential $100 million donation to the party.
Conclusion
Musk’s call for leadership change within Reform UK reveals deeper tensions over the party’s direction and priorities. While Farage remains a polarizing yet influential figure, Musk’s criticisms and advocacy for a new leader may signal a shift in the party’s trajectory. Whether this development strengthens or weakens Reform UK remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly adds a layer of intrigue to the political landscape as the next general election approaches.
