Reform UK Chairman Resigns Amid Burka Ban Controversy

Reform UK Chairman Zia Yusuf Resigns Amid Burka Ban Controversy LONDON, June 6, 2025 – Zia Yusuf, the chairman of the Reform UK party, has unexpectedly resigned from his post. The resignation comes amidst growing controversy surrounding a statement made by Reform UK MP Sarah Pochin calling for a ban on burkas. In an exclusive interview with GB News, party leader Nigel Farage offered his explanation for Yusuf's departure. "I suspect that he thought it just wasn't one of our priorities," Farage stated, referring to the burka ban debate. He emphasized that the party has other pressing issues to address, such as the cost of living crisis and the net-zero agenda. However, Farage acknowledged the significant public reaction to Pochin's statement, suggesting that Yusuf's resignation was influenced by the intense online backlash. The interview highlighted the internal divisions within the Reform UK party, with Farage indicating that Yusuf found the level of online abuse particularly upsetting. The situation underscores the complexities and challenges faced by political parties in navigating sensitive social issues in the current political climate. The resignation leaves Reform UK with a leadership vacancy and raises questions about the party's future direction on matters of religious freedom and cultural sensitivity.