Three more Reform UK councillors expelled from party over ‘dishonest’ behaviour after leaked video meeting – UK politics live

In a significant political shake-up, five councillors from Reform UK have been expelled from the party following a damaging video leak. The footage features the leader of Kent County Council using inappropriate language, which has raised serious concerns about conduct within the party. This incident not only highlights issues of accountability in political leadership but also reflects the ongoing challenges faced by Reform UK in maintaining its image and integrity.

Nigel Farage has come to the defense of Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin after she made controversial remarks about seeing adverts featuring black and Asian individuals, stating it 'drives her mad.' Farage argued that her comments were not intended to be racist, emphasizing that if he believed they were genuinely so, he would have acted against her. This incident highlights ongoing tensions around race and representation in media, raising questions about the impact of such statements on public discourse.

Reform UK has expelled two councillors from Kent, Robert Ford and Bill Barrett, amid allegations of misconduct and internal strife. This decision follows a leaked video that highlighted significant tensions within the party's county council. The expulsions reflect ongoing challenges within Reform UK as it grapples with maintaining unity and addressing internal conflicts, which could impact its political standing and effectiveness moving forward.

Wes Streeting, the health secretary, has condemned Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin's recent comments about television advertisements as 'racist.' Pochin expressed frustration over seeing ads featuring black and Asian individuals, claiming they don't represent the 'average white family.' Streeting criticized her remarks, suggesting they reflect a troubling return to outdated racist attitudes reminiscent of the 1970s and 1980s. This incident highlights ongoing discussions about representation in media and the importance of inclusivity in advertising, making it a significant moment in the current political climate.

Reform UK's Zia Yusuf has come to the defense of an MP facing accusations of racism after she expressed concerns about the representation of black and Asian individuals in television advertisements. This situation highlights ongoing discussions about diversity in media and the implications of public statements on race, making it a significant topic in today's social climate.

The prime minister has announced that a migrant sex offender, who was mistakenly released from prison, will be deported. This incident has drawn sharp criticism, with Reform UK comparing the prison error to a 'Monty Python sketch.' This situation highlights serious flaws in the prison system and raises concerns about public safety, making it a significant issue that demands attention.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is making a strong diplomatic move during US President Donald Trump's visit to Japan. With rising concerns over China's influence and North Korea's nuclear threats, this visit is crucial for Japan as it seeks to reinforce its alliance with the US while balancing domestic interests, particularly in agriculture. Takaichi's charm offensive aims to strengthen ties and ensure Japan's security in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.

The recent fall of El-Fasher to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) signifies a critical shift in the Sudanese conflict, with General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan admitting his army's defeat after a prolonged siege. This city was the last stronghold in Darfur not controlled by the RSF, raising serious concerns from the UN about potential atrocities and revenge attacks on civilians. As the RSF strengthens its grip, there are urgent calls from activists and international organizations for immediate measures to safeguard the civilian population, highlighting the dire need for intervention in a rapidly deteriorating situation.

Tucker Carlson, a prominent US political commentator, has criticized Europe's ongoing support for Ukraine, labeling it as a self-destructive endeavor. He argues that the continent is pursuing a futile war effort that could lead to significant consequences for its future. This perspective raises important questions about the sustainability of European policies in the face of ongoing conflict and the potential ramifications for international relations.

Following Paul Biya's election victory, violence erupted in Cameroon, leading to multiple fatalities and unrest. The announcement of Biya's win with 55.66% of the vote sparked clashes, particularly in Garoua, where two people were killed near the opposition candidate's home. This turmoil highlights the deep political divisions in the country and raises concerns about the stability of Biya's administration moving forward.

Civilians in Sudan are facing dire conditions as the ongoing conflict continues to disrupt essential aid. The war has left many without access to basic necessities, highlighting the urgent need for humanitarian assistance. This situation matters because it underscores the human cost of conflict and the importance of international support to alleviate suffering.

In a significant political event, President Alassane Ouattara has been re-elected in Ivory Coast with an impressive 89.77% of the vote, pending confirmation from the Constitutional Council. This election marks his fourth term, and despite initial concerns about potential unrest, the atmosphere remains calm, allowing daily life to resume smoothly. With nearly half of the electorate participating, Ouattara's continued leadership since 2011 reflects a level of stability in the nation, which is crucial for its future development.