Reform UK leader Richard Tice has firmly rejected suggestions that his party is spiraling into disarray following the abrupt resignation and quick return of senior figure Zia Yusuf. Yusuf, who had stepped down citing exhaustion and feeling sidelined, reportedly triggered by internal friction over the party’s stance on banning the burqa, rejoined the party just two days later, calling his decision to leave a mistake. Tice, aiming to project stability, dismissed the situation as nothing more than the kind of growing pains any rising political party might face. He argued that disagreements and strong emotions are natural in a passionate team, and that Yusuf’s return shows dedication, not dysfunction.
Despite the optics of a leadership shake-up, Tice insisted the party remains united and focused, emphasizing Yusuf’s continued work on policy development, fundraising, and media engagement. Reform UK, which has faced other bumps, such as the suspension of MP Rupert Lowe over bullying allegations, is attempting to maintain momentum as it climbs in opinion polls. Tice was quick to stress that none of these incidents point to systemic issues, but rather to a party adjusting to rapid growth and increased public scrutiny. In his view, these moments are part of the messy but necessary evolution of a party serious about challenging the political status quo.
Reform UK has been gaining traction in recent polls, in some cases edging ahead of Labour, and its leaders are keen to keep the spotlight on policy rather than personnel drama. With a general election on the horizon, Tice is banking on voter frustration with traditional parties to fuel Reform’s rise. The Yusuf episode, while momentarily distracting, is being framed as a hiccup rather than a crisis. As far as Tice is concerned, it’s business as usual, and the party is marching forward.
