Elon Musk withdraws support for Nigel Farage, questioning his leadership of reform UK after disagreement over support for jailed activist Tommy Robinson

Elon Musk has suddenly turned on Nigel Farage, calling for him to step down as leader of the Reform UK party in a surprising shift of support. The outspoken billionaire and tech magnate posted a message on his social media platform X on Sunday, claiming that Farage “doesn’t have what it takes” to lead the right-wing political party.

The move marks a dramatic change in Musk’s relationship with the Brexit campaigner, who had previously referred to Musk as a friend and a supporter, even suggesting that the billionaire was helping to boost Reform’s profile. Last month, Musk and Farage posed for a photograph together, further fueling speculation about a potential alliance.

Reform UK, formerly known as the UK Independence Party (UKIP), gained 4.1 million votes and 5 seats in Parliament during last year’s national election. Farage had been in talks with Musk about securing financial backing from the billionaire to challenge the political dominance of the Labour and Conservative parties.

However, tensions between the two emerged after Farage distanced himself from Musk’s support for Tommy Robinson—a controversial anti-immigration activist currently serving a prison sentence for contempt of court. Musk had endorsed Robinson, but Farage disagreed, stating that Robinson was not a suitable figure for Reform and reiterating his commitment to his principles.

In response to Musk’s post calling for his resignation, Farage expressed his surprise but reaffirmed his stance. “Elon is a remarkable individual, but on this I am afraid I disagree,” Farage said. “I never sell out my principles.”

Musk’s shifting political allegiances have raised eyebrows. Last month, he endorsed Alternative for Germany (AfD), a far-right party criticized for its anti-immigration and anti-Islam rhetoric. Musk has also voiced criticism of British political figures, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, in the wake of controversial anti-immigration protests.

The billionaire has called for a national inquiry into the prosecution of sexual abuse cases, particularly those involving men of Pakistani heritage and underage girls. Starmer, who previously ran the prosecution service during these cases, has faced scrutiny from Musk, though Starmer’s office declined to comment on the billionaire’s latest remarks.

Meanwhile, Wes Streeting, the UK Health Minister, defended Starmer and fellow cabinet member Jess Phillips from Musk’s criticism, emphasizing the challenging work they have done in securing convictions for serious crimes.

As tensions rise between Musk and Farage, the future of Reform UK remains uncertain, with Musk’s withdrawal of support highlighting the complex and ever-changing dynamics of modern political alliances.

BBC

Elon Musk has publicly criticized Nigel Farage’s leadership of Reform UK, stating that Farage “doesn’t have what it takes” to lead the party. The comment came as Musk’s growing influence within the party caused tensions, especially over his support for far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who is currently imprisoned for contempt of court. Farage, who had previously called Musk a “hero,” responded by expressing surprise at the criticism but reaffirmed that he would not compromise his principles. The rift highlights differences between the two, particularly on Robinson’s role within the party. Farage has suggested he will discuss the matter with Musk during an upcoming meeting at Trump’s inauguration.

THE GUARDIAN

Elon Musk has called for Nigel Farage to be replaced as leader of Reform UK, claiming Farage “doesn’t have what it takes.” Musk’s remarks come after Farage had described Musk as a “hero” in a recent interview, signalling potential tension between the two. Musk suggested Rupert Lowe as a possible successor, praising his statements, but Lowe publicly reaffirmed his support for Farage. The rift appears linked to disagreements over Musk’s endorsement of far-right figure Tommy Robinson, whom Farage opposes. Musk’s increasingly controversial statements on UK politics, including accusations against Keir Starmer and Jess Phillips, have further strained relations with Farage.