Reform UK has been thrown into disarray following the dramatic resignation of its deputy leader, Ben Habib, exposing a deep and very public rift with party figurehead Nigel Farage.
The political earthquake was triggered by a fundamental disagreement over a cornerstone of the party's manifesto: a radical pledge to abolish stamp duty for all British buyers of residential property. The policy was a key offering in their recent general election campaign.
The Core of the Conflict
In his resignation letter, Mr Habib revealed he had been completely blindsided by the policy's inclusion. He argued vehemently that the blanket abolition was "regressive," disproportionately benefiting wealthier individuals who could afford more expensive homes, while offering little to those struggling to get on the property ladder.
Instead, Habib advocated for a more targeted approach, proposing that the tax break should apply only to first-time buyers or should include a cap on the property value to ensure it helped those who needed it most.
His concerns were reportedly dismissed by Mr Farage, creating an irreconcilable divide over the party's economic direction and policy-making process.
A Party Divided
This very public fallout is more than a simple policy dispute; it strikes at the heart of Reform UK's unity and future strategy. The resignation of such a senior figure so soon after an election raises serious questions about internal cohesion and the clarity of its message to voters.
Political analysts suggest the spat could damage the party's credibility, making it appear fractious and unprepared to govern. It also puts Nigel Farage's leadership under a new spotlight, as he faces criticism for an allegedly top-down approach to policy formation.
The party must now navigate this internal crisis while attempting to maintain its momentum and build on the significant share of the vote it secured in the July poll.
