Reform UK is experiencing internal turmoil in Birmingham following the announcement of candidates for the upcoming local council elections on May 7. Long-standing Reform volunteers and community champions in Northfield are expressing frustration and dismay, alleging bullying and accusations of internal empire-building within the party ranks.
The controversy erupted after the party’s leadership revealed its initial slate of candidates, intensifying ongoing feuds. Notably, Paul Smith, a prominent activist who had dedicated months to grassroots campaigning in Allens Cross, has decided to stand as an Independent after being unceremoniously excluded from the candidate list. Smith, a former Conservative turned Reform supporter with a background in the Ministry of Defence and Royal Navy Reserve, had intended to donate his councillor salary to local causes, including a food bank. His suspension just before the candidate announcements, and lack of opportunity to appeal, have deepened the rift.
Whispers of discontent within Reform UK suggest local leaders prioritize power over community service, dismissing the value of grassroots activists in favor of political maneuvering. Critics allege that some national leaders view council roles merely as stepping stones to Westminster, rather than a commitment to local governance. Insiders fear this attitude undermines the party’s credibility and longevity in Birmingham.
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The party’s Birmingham leadership includes figures such as Midlands regional director Pete Durnell and Birmingham organiser Rajbir Singh. Singh, who briefly led Sandwell Labour before switching allegiances, and others like Jay Anandou, a former Conservative turned pro-Palestine independent, have been criticized for sidelining dedicated community members in favor of their own preferred candidates.
Selection controversies extend beyond Smith’s case. Rebecca Waters, chosen for the Rubery and Rednal ward, faced backlash after sharing a misleading social media post accusing Independent MP Mohamed Iqbal of pushing for an “Islamist takeover” — a post later deleted following party intervention. Additionally, former Tory councillor Nigel Dawkins, removed from a community champion role amid bullying allegations, successfully sued Reform UK for unpaid expenses, further fueling negative perceptions.
Despite the turmoil, Reform UK maintains its ambition to capitalize on widespread local disillusionment with Labour and the Conservatives. Party leader Nigel Farage has publicly declared Birmingham “broken” and pledged Reform will “fix it.” Currently controlling 12 councils and two mayoralties, Reform UK aims to significantly increase its presence in Birmingham, potentially becoming the dominant political group following the election.
In response to calls for comment on candidate disputes and internal complaints, Reform UK issued a statement emphasizing their commitment to contesting every seat with a diverse team united in their goal to transform Birmingham. The party insists there is a strong grassroots appetite for change and expresses confidence in securing victory on May 7.
As Reform UK prepares for the polls, the outcome may not only redefine Birmingham’s political landscape but also reveal whether the party can reconcile internal divisions to sustain its growth.