Yusuf’s unexpected exit raises questions about the future direction of Reform U.K. and its ability to maintain cohesion amid infighting.
**Reform U.K. Faces Internal Strife as Chairman Resigns Over Party Disagreements**
**Reform U.K. Faces Internal Strife as Chairman Resigns Over Party Disagreements**
The resignation of Zia Yusuf highlights growing tensions within Nigel Farage's party amidst divergent views on key policies.
In a surprising turn of events, Zia Yusuf, chairman of Reform U.K.—the anti-immigration political party led by Nigel Farage—announced his resignation on Thursday, signaling deepening rifts within the organization. Yusuf's departure is particularly impactful, as he played a vital role in shaping the party's foundation as it navigates its early stages in British politics.
His resignation follows a contentious dispute with Sarah Pochin, the party's newly inducted member of Parliament, who recently urged Prime Minister Keir Starmer to implement a ban on the burqa. Yusuf publicly dismissed Pochin's remarks as "dumb," drawing attention to a discrepancy between her stance and the party's official policy from the last election cycle. However, not all party members aligned with Yusuf’s condemnation; Lee Anderson, Reform's chief whip, was vocal in his support for a burqa ban, asserting that public identity should not be concealed.
In a brief statement shared through social media, Yusuf did not elaborate on his reasons for stepping down, simply stating, “I no longer believe working to get a Reform government elected is a good use of my time, and hereby resign the office.” This abrupt resignation raises concerns about the party's internal cohesion and public image as it faces growing challenges from both within and outside its ranks.
