Not-for-profit appears to own Reform UK despite Farages democratisation pledge
Guardian1 day ago
UK: Farage Cedes Reform UK Ownership
Above: Leader of Reform UK Nigel Farage during a press conference on the economy and renewable energy on Feb. 12, 2025, in London, England. Image copyright: Dan Kitwood/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage announced on Thursday that he has ceded his two-thirds voting share majority of the party, which will now instead be run by a limited company called Reform 2025 Ltd.
According to Companies House, Farage, Richard Tice, and Mehrtash A’zami have ceded all shares, with Reform 2025 Ltd the only entity with significant influence. Reform 2025 Ltd is a private company limited by guarantee, with Farage and party chairman Zia Yusuf as company directors despite there being no people of significant influence.
Speaking to GB News from Washington, DC, Farage stated that Reform has been turned into a "fully functioning democratic modern political party," while Yusuf released a statement announcing that the governing board was now being assembled.
The Spin
Left narrative
Farage’s claim that Reform UK is now in the hands of its members is more of a façade than true democratization. Despite talk of handing over control, the party’s structure still centralizes power in Farage and a few close allies such as Yusuf. With the constitution offering little real oversight from members, this change appears cosmetic, maintaining tight control under the guise of reform.
Right narrative
Reform UK's shift to member ownership marks a vital move toward greater transparency and democracy within the party. By handing control to its members and establishing a new governance structure, the party ensures that leadership is more accountable and members have a genuine role in shaping its direction. This transition enhances Reform UK's professionalism and commitment to representing grassroots voices.