Reform UK’s candidate running in the Makerfield by-election has stirred controversy by expressing support for Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea. Robert Kenyon, the candidate, recently endorsed a social media post labeling Moscow’s actions in Crimea as “democracy in action.”
This revelation adds to a series of contentious statements made by Kenyon, who is challenging Labour’s Andy Burnham in the Greater Manchester constituency on June 18. In a forum post from March 2014 discussing Ukraine, Kenyon backed Russia’s actions in Crimea, drawing a parallel to the UK’s approach in the Falklands.
Following the annexation, over 100,000 Ukrainians fled Crimea as the Kremlin cracked down on dissent. Kenyon’s controversial remarks extend beyond geopolitical issues, as he has also made derogatory comments about women, including remarks about Carol Vorderman. In response to Vorderman’s criticism, Kenyon acknowledged the inappropriateness of his past comments.
Moreover, Kenyon has been linked to disparaging remarks about women in a rugby forum and statements critical of Nigel Farage’s association with Donald Trump, as well as admitting to not supporting Brexit. In light of Kenyon’s stance on Crimea, Defence Minister Luke Pollard criticized Farage for endorsing a candidate who aligns with Kremlin viewpoints.
Meanwhile, a group of MPs has urged the Equality and Human Rights Commission to investigate Reform UK for alleged Islamophobia. This move follows accusations that the party has violated the Equality Act of 2010. Despite the backlash, a spokesperson for Reform UK defended Kenyon, stating that his comments predate his political involvement and asserting his opposition to Russia’s actions in Ukraine. The party expressed confidence in Kenyon’s candidacy for Makerfield MP.
