LONDON: Elon Musk made headlines on Sunday after he appeared to reverse his previous support for Nigel Farage, the leader of the UK’s anti-immigration Reform UK party, following a public disagreement with the former Brexit figurehead.
In a post on his social media platform, X, Musk criticized Farage, saying, “The Reform Party needs a new leader. Farage doesn’t have what it takes.” This remark came after Farage had claimed he was in talks with Musk regarding a potential major donation for his party, which played a role in the outcome of the UK’s general election in July by splitting the right-wing vote and aiding the Labour Party’s victory.
The dispute between the two intensified after Musk voiced his support for Tommy Robinson, a jailed British extremist known for his anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant views. Robinson, who was convicted of contempt of court related to a libel case involving a Syrian refugee, sparked controversy when Musk questioned his imprisonment. In one of his posts, Musk wondered why Robinson was “in solitary confinement prison for telling the truth” regarding a grooming scandal in the UK that involved the abuse of vulnerable girls.
Farage quickly responded, distancing himself from Musk’s views on Robinson, clarifying that Robinson was not in prison for his fight against grooming gangs but for contempt of court. Farage maintained his disagreement, stating that Musk’s support for Robinson did not align with the Reform UK party’s principles, particularly as Robinson’s past as a football hooligan with multiple criminal convictions raised concerns.
The heated exchange highlights the broader tensions surrounding controversial figures like Robinson, whose past and views continue to stir debate. Musk’s criticism of UK politics, including attacks on Prime Minister Keir Starmer and child welfare minister Jess Phillips, adds fuel to the ongoing political controversy, further complicating the relationship between Musk and Farage.
The fallout between Musk and Farage demonstrates the complexities of political alliances, especially when high-profile figures with divergent views clash publicly.
