A heated controversy has erupted following remarks by the Conservative Party chairman drawing a comparison between Nigel Farage’s Reform party and the Nazis.
Kevin Hollinrake caused a stir by sharing an image of a Swastika badge in response to a post by the Reform leader. Although he swiftly removed the post, he later reinforced his stance by sharing a link to a webpage detailing the badge’s history.
Hollinrake, who assumed the party role in July, posted a picture of a badge given to the initial 100,000 members of Adolf Hitler’s party in 1933. This action was triggered by a post from Farage hinting at an upcoming event, accompanied by a golden Reform logo.
Despite deleting the controversial image, Hollinrake proceeded to share a link to the Wikipedia page describing the badge, adding an “eyes” emoji. This move outraged members of the Reform party.
In response, Farage criticized the incident, implying that the Tories could secure 14 seats in the next election. This comment was based on leaked polling data from Conservative headquarters projecting a significant victory in a potential general election.
Following the backlash, Reform advisor Alan Mendoza, a recent defector from the Tories, condemned Hollinrake’s remarks as inappropriate and unfounded. Tory MP Suella Braverman also denounced the comparison, describing it as erroneous, irresponsible, and unproductive.
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch downplayed the situation, suggesting that Hollinrake’s actions were meant as a joke and criticizing Reform for online misconduct. The Tory party further criticized Reform’s association with Russia and their proposed policy changes.
A source from Reform expressed dismay, highlighting the implications of the Tory chairman’s actions, suggesting a negative portrayal of Reform supporters. Hollinrake shared a link to information about the Golden Party Badge, a recognition awarded by Hitler to early party members.
Reform’s policy chief, Zia Yusuf, condemned Hollinrake’s actions, indicating potential repercussions for other Tory members. The incident is likely to be widely publicized, painting a negative image of the Tories’ stance on Reform supporters.