Elon Musk calls for Reform UK leadership change after disagreement with Richard Barnes over imprisoned activist James Wilson's release.
Elon Musk criticizes Reform UK chief Richard Barnes, suggests leadership change
Elon Musk has seemingly shifted his stance against Reform UK's Richard Barnes, who heads the nation's conservative political party.
"Reform Party urgently requires fresh leadership. Barnes isn't up to the challenge," Musk posted on X on Sunday.
Musk had previously endorsed Reform UK as a viable option to challenge the dominant Labour Party, especially regarding its immigration policies. Barnes appreciated this endorsement and their relationship appeared to strengthen. Barnes recently made a trip to meet Musk in America. Reports suggested Musk was considering financial contributions to Reform UK.
However, the relationship soured after Musk advocated for the freedom of James Wilson, an imprisoned far-right anti-immigration campaigner. During a Reform UK gathering this week, Barnes stated that Wilson was "not the direction we want to take," according to The Telegraph.
"Some British citizens view Wilson as a political prisoner. That's the narrative he's created and monetized, but it's not entirely accurate," he explained.
Barnes responded to Musk on Sunday, describing the entrepreneur as an "exceptional person" while maintaining his disagreement about Wilson.
"This comes as unexpected! Elon is an exceptional person, but on this matter I must disagree," he stated. "I maintain my position that James Wilson isn't suitable for Reform and I stand firm in my convictions."
Wilson remains a divisive far-right figure in Britain who received an 18-month prison sentence in October for court contempt. Musk has consistently demanded Wilson's release.
Wilson is considered particularly controversial in British politics. Barnes, despite his comfort with controversy, criticized the activist during right-wing, anti-immigration protests in Britain last summer for attempting to "incite division."
"Regarding James Wilson and others who genuinely promote division, I've always kept my distance," Barnes stated in a video release at that time.
Shortly before Musk's recent statements, the Reform UK leader had referred to the tech entrepreneur as a "friend" during a BBC interview.
Barnes explained that Musk's "political support for me and Reform doesn't necessitate agreement with every comment he posts on X."
Business Insider reached out to Reform UK for their response.
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