Musk Demands Reform UK Expel Farage
A surprising public split has emerged between the duo following their contrasting views on imprisoned right-wing activist Tommy Robinson. Read Full Article at RT.com
Elon Musk has called for Nigel Farage to be replaced as leader of Reform UK, signaling a significant shift in the Tesla billionaire’s support for the right-wing figure. This announcement followed Farage's failure to endorse Musk’s provocative remarks about British politicians. “The Reform party needs a new leader. Farage doesn’t have what it takes,” Musk posted on X, the social media platform he owns, on Sunday afternoon. This statement comes just weeks after he praised Farage and called Reform UK Britain’s “only hope.”
The rift appears to be linked to disagreements over Tommy Robinson, who is imprisoned in England for contempt of court, alongside Musk’s recent controversial statements. Earlier this week, the South African-born US tycoon accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of being “complicit in the rape of Britain” due to his role overseeing the UK prosecution office during historical grooming gang scandals. He further labeled health minister Jess Phillips as a “rape genocide apologist.”
In an interview with the BBC on Sunday, Farage distanced himself from Musk's assertions. “I don’t agree with everything he stands for,” the politician remarked. “But I do believe in free speech. I think he’s a hero.” Farage also dismissed Musk’s suggestion to allow Robinson to join his party, stating he is “not what we need” in Reform UK. In contrast, Musk has described Robinson as a political prisoner and has consistently advocated for his release.
In response to Musk’s post, Farage expressed his surprise but reiterated his position. “Elon is a remarkable individual, but on this, I am afraid I disagree. My view remains that Tommy Robinson is not right for Reform, and I never sell out my principles,” he wrote on X.
This split is notable considering that Musk and Farage met last month at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, where there were reports suggesting that the tech mogul was contemplating a $100 million donation to Reform UK. While acknowledging their differences, Farage has underscored the importance of Musk’s influence, stating, “Free speech is back. Well, you may find it offensive, but it’s a good thing, not a bad thing.”
Musk’s escalating statements have faced backlash from UK politicians, with Labour MP Wes Streeting calling them “disgraceful.”
Sophie Wagner contributed to this report for TROIB News