The Conservative Party is facing a storm of criticism after the case of Lucy Connolly, a woman who pleaded guilty to a criminal offense, reignited debates about law, politics, and responsibility.
What should have been a straightforward legal matter has turned into a political spectacle, with Tory figures rushing to defend her and some even labeling her a “political prisoner.”
The Social Media Sparks That Ignited Disorder
Lucy Connolly’s crime involved urging others on Twitter to commit arson based on false rumors.
Her posts, seen by roughly 300,000 people, coincided with a period of violent unrest in some cities.
Even some of her Tory defenders admit her behavior was “revolting and stupid,” yet they have chosen to stand by her, arguing about “two-tier justice” and claiming she is being unfairly singled out.
Kemi Badenoch and the Radical Right’s Misguided Support
Party leader Kemi Badenoch has positioned herself at the forefront of those defending Connolly, joined by a fringe Tory peer with lofty intellectual pretensions.
According to critics, this new “radical Right” is less interested in crafting meaningful policies and more focused on slogans and fleeting street popularity.
Columnist Peter Hitchens warns that politicians who lead mobs risk becoming targets themselves, underscoring the dangers of elevating Connolly to martyr status.
Freedom of Information Laws Under Scrutiny
Hitchens also highlights frustrations with the UK’s Freedom of Information laws.
Despite requesting information from Cheshire Police about a briefing related to Lucy Letby’s trial, he faced repeated refusals, even after appeals.
The case illustrates how FoI protections can fail journalists seeking public information, particularly when the material involves living persons or criminal proceedings—even if details have already been shared with selected reporters.
The War in Ukraine Remains Stalled
Shifting focus internationally, Hitchens critiques European politicians’ handling of the Ukraine war.
Recent visits to Washington by European leaders appear to have ensured that peace talks remain stalled, leaving the conflict to continue indefinitely.
According to Hitchens, the war is largely a proxy conflict instigated by the US and exacerbated by Russia’s response, while Ukraine itself suffers the consequences.
The Human Cost and Political Misjudgments
Hitchens draws parallels to past conflicts, noting that wars are easy to start but notoriously difficult to end.
Peace efforts, from Istanbul in 2022 to today, have repeatedly faltered, leaving millions of Ukrainians and neighboring countries to bear the brunt of decisions made by powerful governments.
Leaders, he argues, are failing to exercise the wisdom and foresight needed to bring conflicts to a responsible conclusion.
The Takeaway on Law, Politics, and Responsibility
From domestic controversies like Lucy Connolly’s case to international crises in Ukraine, Hitchens highlights a recurring theme: the fragile balance between law, politics, and societal stability.
Misjudgments, whether in defending a criminal or prolonging a war, risk undermining both public trust and the civil order that underpins modern democracy.
In his view, failing to act wisely today could have consequences far worse than anyone anticipates.