Ousted Reform UK MP Rupert Lowe might be plotting his next political move — and it could involve joining a new breakaway right-wing party.
Lowe and Habib in talks
Ben Habib, a former Brexit Party MEP and outspoken critic of Nigel Farage, revealed he’s “constantly in touch” with Lowe. He even suggested they could team up to launch a new political force.
Lowe lost the party whip last week after accusations of bullying and threatening Reform UK chair Zia Yusuf. He denies the claims, insisting they’re retaliation for him criticising Farage’s leadership style as “messianic.”
Political shake-up ahead of key elections
The timing couldn’t be worse for Reform UK. The party faces a crucial test in the local elections this May, alongside a by-election in Runcorn and Helsby. If Reform struggles at the polls, it could spell serious trouble for Farage’s leadership.
Habib, who quit Reform last year over concerns about how it was being run, believes Lowe still has strong public backing.
“Rupert is hugely popular,” Habib told The Telegraph. “The country is crying out for people who are solid. My activity will be to support Rupert.”
Musk’s backing on the cards?
Things could get even more interesting. Elon Musk, who once supported Reform UK, recently suggested Farage “doesn’t have what it takes” after the leader refused to back far-right activist Tommy Robinson.
According to The Financial Times, sources close to Musk claim he might be open to funding a splinter party with a hardline stance on mass deportations — something Lowe has publicly supported.
Lowe’s team hits back
Lowe’s parliamentary team didn’t hold back. In a statement, his seven-strong Westminster staff accused Reform UK of “weaponising” internal processes to force Lowe out.
“Nobody from Reform has ever raised these concerns with us before this ‘investigation,’” they said. “If they were so concerned about Rupert’s behaviour, why were we not warned?”
Next steps for Lowe
In an interview with Dan Wootton, Lowe hinted at his next political move. He didn’t rule out joining the Conservatives or UKIP but suggested his real threat lies with Farage himself.
“A poppy that stood up too tall has been chopped down,” Lowe said.
He added that Farage has a history of falling out with anyone who looks capable of challenging his leadership.
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