The Reform Party has recently been shaken by the unexpected resignation of its chairman, Zia Yusuf, sparking concern and disappointment within its ranks.
Richard Tice, deputy leader of Reform and a close ally of Nigel Farage, expressed how “enormously sad” he was about Yusuf’s departure.
Tice praised Yusuf’s dedication, noting how hard he had worked behind the scenes to help the party secure hundreds of council seats in the recent local elections.
Despite this, the resignation highlights underlying tensions within the party, especially around divisive issues like the burka ban.
Clash Over the Burka Ban
One of the main points of contention appears to be the party’s stance on banning the burka.
Yusuf opposed the idea, calling out a fellow Reform MP, Sarah Pochin, for asking Prime Minister Keir Starmer about a burka ban in the House of Commons—a question that Yusuf described as “dumb” since it was not official party policy.
In contrast, Richard Tice firmly supports having a debate on the issue.
He described the burka as “a repressive item of clothing” and argued that in a country founded on Christian values and equality, it’s important to question whether such garments fit with those principles.
Tice emphasized the need for a calm and respectful public discussion, especially given that some European countries have already imposed bans on face coverings.
Government’s Position and Party Discord
Downing Street quickly distanced itself from the idea of a ban.
A government spokesperson clarified that the current administration does not support mandating what people wear in public.
This official stance contrasts sharply with Tice’s views and underscores the divisions within Reform.
Yusuf’s resignation came just hours after he publicly criticized Pochin and announced he no longer wanted to work alongside Nigel Farage to prepare for the next election.
This exit follows other internal conflicts, such as the expulsion of Great Yarmouth MP Rupert Lowe, who had a fraught history with Yusuf, including allegations of verbal threats that were later cleared by the police.
Reform’s Rising Political Threat
Despite internal struggles, Reform is making waves politically.
In a recent Scottish by-election for Hamilton, Larkhall, and Stonehouse, Reform captured an impressive 26.2% of the vote, finishing a close third behind Labour and the SNP.
Deputy leader Tice described the result as evidence of a “coalition of the terrified” among Labour and the SNP, who he suggested are worried about Reform’s growing influence.
Pollster Sir John Curtice echoed this sentiment, saying Reform now poses a serious challenge to Labour in Scotland.
However, tensions remain high, with SNP leader John Swinney recently accusing Nigel Farage of being “fundamentally racist,” a claim Tice dismissed as “juvenile smears” designed to rally opposition.
What Lies Ahead for Reform?
The Reform Party finds itself at a crossroads.
Internal divisions over policies like the burka ban and leadership disputes threaten to derail its momentum, yet the party’s rising vote share suggests it could become a significant force in British politics.
How Reform navigates these internal conflicts and external criticisms will be crucial as it eyes the next election.
Will it unite around a clear message or continue to wrestle with infighting? Only time will tell.