The candidate representing Reform UK in the Makerfield constituency is under scrutiny for alleged concerning activities on his social media accounts. Robert Kenyon, the chosen candidate for Nigel Farage’s party in the upcoming by-election where Andy Burnham will stand for Labour, is facing accusations from a campaign group called Searchlight. They claim that Kenyon was connected to a known fascist activist, Gary Raikes, on Facebook, although the specific page has since been removed.
Further social media issues involve Kenyon’s previous Twitter account, which seems to have been deactivated in 2024. The Reform party explained that Kenyon’s Facebook page was taken down to transition to a more public-facing profile after he was elected as a councillor in recent local elections.
Despite Farage’s party asserting that Kenyon never engaged with Raikes and that a mere social media connection does not imply endorsement, the Labour Party expressed deep concerns over the allegations against Kenyon. They called on Kenyon to clarify the situation to the people of Makerfield.
In response, a Reform UK spokesperson labeled the accusations as baseless attempts to tarnish a strong candidate, highlighting that being friends on Facebook does not equate to sharing views. The upcoming by-election in Makerfield is scheduled for June 18, with the Conservatives nominating former Wigan mayor Michael Winstanley and the Green Party selecting nurse and children’s safeguarding specialist Chris Kennedy as their candidate.
Reform UK has faced criticism previously over the online activities of some of its members. Notably, a campaigner was suspended for alleged racist remarks, including derogatory comments that surfaced in February. The Labour Campaign spokesperson criticized Reform for what they perceive as divisive tactics and demanded clarity on the suspended campaigner’s status.
Regarding the suspended campaigner, Reform mentioned that their disciplinary procedures are confidential and do not provide ongoing updates on such cases. The unfolding events in Makerfield highlight the tensions surrounding the upcoming by-election and the scrutiny faced by the candidates.