Nigel Farage has resigned as MP for Clacton, triggering a byelection, after facing scrutiny over undeclared donations. The Reform UK leader claimed he had 'never been angrier' and accused the establishment of using 'foul means' against him.
The controversy stems from revelations that Farage received a £5m gift from crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne, which parliament is investigating. Further allegations involve undeclared funding from convicted criminal George Cottrell for staffing, security, and housing.
Farage framed his resignation as a 'people versus the establishment' contest, saying the people of Clacton would judge his actions. Critics, including Prime Minister Keir Starmer, called it a 'desperate stunt' to avoid scrutiny, with Starmer stating Farage is 'up to his neck in sleaze'.
The byelection pauses the parliamentary investigation, buying Farage time. Polls show Reform UK ahead nationally, and Farage won Clacton in 2024 with 46.2% of the vote, making his re-election likely.
If the investigation later finds against him, a second byelection could be triggered by a petition from 10% of constituents. Farage has offered to cover the costs of the upcoming byelection.
