Internal divisions within Reform UK are complicating Nigel Farage’s attempts to transform the party into a credible alternative to the governing Labour Party ahead of the next general election, due by August 2029.
Tensions have escalated ahead of the party’s annual conference next month, with disputes over leadership and strategy overshadowing Farage’s push for professionalization. Recent polling indicates Labour and Reform UK are tied at roughly 24%, based on a 14-day average of surveys from nine polling companies compiled by Bloomberg. The governing Labour Party has gained ground under Prime Minister Andy Burnham, while Reform has faced scrutiny over undeclared gifts and electoral setbacks.
Three Reform insiders described interactions with Farage’s office as chaotic, with suggestions that the party should appoint an experienced chief of staff to improve operations. A person close to Farage disputed claims of disorganization, asserting that the party is making progress in expanding its parliamentary presence and staffing.
The disputes intensified after strategist Tim Montgomerie was suspended hours after criticizing senior party figures during a podcast. Montgomerie stated that Farage was unaware of the suspension and planned to challenge the decision, while Reform maintained that the suspension complied with party rules.
Farage has sought to broaden Reform’s appeal by appointing spokespeople for finance, business, and home affairs, alongside policy advisors and communications staff. However, insiders have questioned the effectiveness of the advice provided, pointing to failed by-election campaigns and Farage’s decision to resign his parliamentary seat before winning the Clacton by-election.
Home affairs spokesperson Zia Yusuf recently described a Conservative Party rival and armed forces veteran as a “moron” and “traitor,” further highlighting the internal strife within the party.
