Reform party replaced its leader after an arrest of a senior MP and a wave of defections that rattled its ranks.

The incident threatens the party's standing ahead of the upcoming general election, with critics arguing it could erode voter confidence. According to party insiders, the arrest exposed deep fissures that had been widening for months.

The Conservative Party’s spokesperson welcomed the shift, saying it demonstrated Reform’s internal chaos.

Reform’s rapid shift illustrates the fragility of its internal cohesion.

Several members of Reform’s parliamentary group left to sit as independents, citing disagreements over policy and leadership. The resignations came on the same day as the arrest, amplifying the perception of a party in crisis.

The arrest occurred in a modest office at the party’s London headquarters, where the MP was taken into custody.

Arrest of a Reform MP in a London office

In response, Reform’s executive convened an emergency meeting and elected a former deputy leader as its new head. The new leader pledged to restore unity and refocus the party’s message on economic reform.

Such rapid leadership changes are uncommon in UK politics. The last comparable shift happened during the 1983 Conservative leadership contest, when Margaret Thatcher’s successor was chosen after a brief period of turmoil.

The new leader will face a confidence vote next week, while the party works to rebuild its image ahead of the general election scheduled for October. The outcome of the confidence vote will determine whether Reform can regroup before voters head to the polls.