Reform UK Chairman Zia Yusuf Resigns Amid Party Turmoil

Zia Yusuf has stepped down as Chairman of Reform UK, citing that continuing to work toward electing the party is no longer “a good use” of his time. His resignation comes shortly after tensions flared over a controversial comment made by a new Reform MP, and amid internal divisions within the party.

Yusuf, who led the party through recent election gains—including a by-election win and over 600 new councillors—announced his departure via social media without elaborating further. However, he had recently criticised Reform MP Sarah Pochin for calling on Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer to ban the burka, labelling the move “dumb.”

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage expressed regret over Yusuf’s resignation, calling him “enormously talented” and pivotal to the party’s recent success. Still, Farage admitted he suspected Yusuf had “had enough” of the relentless nature of politics and acknowledged that Yusuf’s interpersonal style wasn’t always well-received within the party.

Yusuf, a wealthy tech entrepreneur and self-described “proud British Muslim patriot,” had previously donated £200,000 to the party and spearheaded professionalisation efforts, including the launch of the “Doge” teams—an initiative to reduce wasteful spending in councils, inspired by Elon Musk’s US reforms.

His resignation was followed by that of Nathaniel Fried, who led the Doge project and said he would leave in solidarity with Yusuf.

Critics, including Liberal Democrats and Labour, mocked the chaos within Reform. Some praised Yusuf’s ambition, while others suggested his departure highlighted deeper instability. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch dismissed Reform as a mere “fan club.”

Despite increasing national polling numbers, Reform UK remains plagued by infighting. Recent months saw Great Yarmouth MP Rupert Lowe expelled over allegations of misconduct and threats toward Yusuf—claims later dropped by prosecutors.

Yusuf’s departure raises fresh questions about the future leadership and unity of a party that once hoped to disrupt the political mainstream.