Zia Yusuf quits as Reform UK chair after row over new MP’s call for burqa ban
GuardianJUN 5
Reform UK Chairman Zia Yusuf Resigns After Burka Ban Dispute
Above: Zia Yusuf, former chairman of Reform UK, during a news conference in London, UK, on May 27, 2025. Image copyright: Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg via Getty Images
The Spin
Left narrative
Reform is unraveling. Yusuf’s resignation further exposes deep dysfunction at the party’s core, defined by infighting, poor leadership, and policy confusion. Farage’s failure to build a sustainable team or even consult his chairman on key policy issues reveals a one-man band in chaos. For a party claiming to be ready for power, Reform looks anything but prepared.
Right narrative
Yusuf was a divisive figure in Reform; polished and professional to some, but out of step with Reform’s grassroots to others. While his departure is by no means a collapse, the party now will face further pressure to prove it can be trusted to govern. After a mixed result in the Hamilton by-election, Farage must act quickly to solidify his lead in the polls.