A shock public cut up has come after the 2 took opposing positions on jailed right-wing activist Tommy Robinson
Elon Musk has known as for Nigel Farage to get replaced as chief of Reform UK, marking a dramatic reversal within the Tesla billionaire’s assist for the right-wing chief. The announcement got here simply hours after Farage did not again Musk’s inflammatory feedback about British politicians.
“The Reform occasion wants a brand new chief. Farage doesn’t have what it takes,” Musk posted on X, the social media platform he owns, on Sunday afternoon. His assertion comes weeks after praising Farage and describing Reform UK as Britain’s “solely hope.”
The fallout seems to be tied to disagreements over far-right activist Tommy Robinson, who was jailed in England on contempt of court docket fees, in addition to Musk’s current controversial claims.
Earlier this week, the South African-born US tycoon known as Prime Minister Keir Starmer “complicit within the rape of Britain” as a result of his oversight of the UK prosecution workplace throughout previous grooming gang scandals. He additionally accused well being minister Jess Phillips of being a “rape genocide apologist.”
Talking to the BBC on Sunday, Farage distanced himself from Musk’s remarks. “I don’t agree with every thing he stands for,” the politician stated. “However I do imagine in free speech. I feel he’s a hero.”
Farage additionally rejected Musk’s calls to permit Robinson to hitch his occasion, saying he’s “not what we want” in Reform UK. Musk, against this, has described the jailed activist as a political prisoner and repeatedly championed his launch.
Reacting to Musk’s submit, Farage expressed shock however reaffirmed his stance. “Elon is a exceptional particular person, however on this, I’m afraid I disagree. My view stays that Tommy Robinson shouldn’t be proper for Reform, and I by no means promote out my rules,” he wrote on X.
The rift comes regardless of Musk and Farage assembly final month at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, the place reviews instructed the tech mogul was contemplating a $100m (£80m) donation to Reform UK. Farage has since acknowledged their disagreements however emphasised the worth of Musk’s affect. “Free speech is again,” he stated. “Nicely, it’s possible you’ll discover it offensive, however it’s a superb factor, not a nasty factor.”
Musk’s escalating feedback have drawn condemnation from UK politicians, with Labour MP Wes Streeting branding them “disgraceful.”
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