Nigel Farage Responds to Resigning Councillors and Elon Musk's Criticism

Nigel Farage has publicly addressed concerns raised by twelve councillors from Reform UK who announced their resignations, claiming he is "autocratic" and "not up to the job." This news broke while Farage was at an event in Surrey, reported by the Guardian, following tensions with Elon Musk, who had considered a significant donation to the party before suggesting that new leadership was needed.

Farage dismissed the resigning councillors as a "rogue branch" of Reform UK, implying that their nominations were not legitimate. He pointed out that some of these councillors had previously engaged in questionable behavior, including an individual who had shared a post from Tommy Robinson in the past. Zia Yusuf, the chairman of Reform UK, supported Farage's statements by highlighting that the leader of the councillors had faced suspension for nominating unsuitable candidates and that those involved in fraudulent activities would face expulsion from the party.

Farage also took the opportunity to respond to criticism from Elon Musk, emphasizing that he and Musk remain friends despite their disagreements. He expressed his commitment to his beliefs, stating that he refuses to be influenced or pressured by anyone, referencing Musk's support for Robinson, who is currently imprisoned for contempt of court. Farage clarified that while he appreciates Musk's many supportive messages, he could not agree with Musk's portrayal of Robinson as a political prisoner.