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Sunday 22/02/2026

Reform UK Faces Turmoil as Councillor Suspensions Continue

Reform UK party in turmoil with suspended councillors
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Reform UK has suspended another councillor, Isabella Kemp, amid ongoing internal tensions following a leaked video.
  • The party has lost nine councillors since winning 57 seats in May's local elections, impacting its control over Kent County Council.
  • The leaked video showed council leader Linden Kemkaran using strong language, leading to further scrutiny and criticism.
  • Kemp, who was also dismissed from her job at Reform UK, is pursuing legal action for unfair dismissal.
  • The suspensions have disrupted council operations, including the cancellation of a committee meeting crucial for school transport appeals.

Reform UK is grappling with internal strife as another councillor, Isabella Kemp, has been suspended following the leak of a contentious video. The party, which took control of Kent County Council in May, has now lost nine of its 57 elected councillors, raising questions about its governance capabilities.

Internal Conflicts and Suspensions

The recent suspension of Kemp, who also served as a data protection officer at Reform UK's headquarters, adds to the party's woes. Kemp has initiated legal proceedings against the party for unfair dismissal, citing her removal from both her council position and her job. The leaked video, which surfaced in The Guardian, depicted council leader Linden Kemkaran using explicit language during a meeting, telling dissenting members to "suck it up" if they disagreed with her decisions.

Impact on Council Operations

The suspensions have had tangible effects on council operations. A committee meeting, vital for adjudicating school transport appeals, was canceled due to the absence of its chair, who was among those suspended. The Liberal Democrats, the council's second-largest group, have called for Kemp's reinstatement to her previous role as chair of the adult social care and public health committee.

Leadership Under Scrutiny

Kemkaran, who has faced criticism for her leadership style, drew parallels between her party's situation and her son's military training, suggesting that some members were not up to the challenge. Despite the turmoil, party leader Nigel Farage has expressed unwavering support for Kemkaran. However, opposition leaders have questioned her adherence to public life standards and the impact of her leadership on the council's stability.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The ongoing suspensions and internal conflicts within Reform UK could have significant implications for the party's future in Kent. With the loss of councillors and disruptions to council operations, the party's ability to maintain control is in jeopardy. Legal actions by suspended members like Kemp could further strain resources and public perception. As the situation unfolds, the party's leadership will need to address these challenges to restore confidence and stability. Political analysts suggest that the outcome of these internal disputes could influence Reform UK's broader political strategy and its prospects in future elections.

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