Reform UK suspends member amid internal friction over Zia Yusuf

Internal tensions are rising within Reform UK following the suspension of prominent board member Tim Montgomerie. Montgomerie was suspended after criticizing the party’s home affairs spokesperson, Zia Yusuf, describing his political behavior as that of a “child.”

Montgomerie alleged that Yusuf has acted as a “freelance” commentator on social media regarding major party policies and suggested that Yusuf’s actions are driven by ambitions to succeed Nigel Farage as party leader. The friction follows Yusuf’s recent comments labeling former Conservative Defence Secretary Ben Wallace a “traitor,” a remark that drew criticism from both Montgomerie and Farage.

Separately, Conservative shadow defence minister Mark Francois has ruled out any potential electoral pact with Reform UK, citing Yusuf’s conduct. Francois stated that Yusuf’s tendency to label political opponents as “traitors” makes collaboration impossible, specifically noting the insult directed at Wallace.