Protests Against Racism at Reform UK Office

Thousands of anti-racism protesters gathered outside the headquarters of Reform UK, voicing their concerns over party leader Nigel Farage's rhetoric on immigration. Samira Ali, who delivered the closing speech, expressed a sense of victory, stating, “We feel like we have turned the tide.” She emphasized the successful mobilization of the community, noting that the anticipated presence of counter-protesters did not materialize. Fellow speaker Gary McFarlan highlighted the initial fear among potential demonstrators, reflecting on the tense atmosphere leading up to the event. The choice of Reform UK’s headquarters as the protest's starting point was deliberate, aimed at addressing Farage's controversial immigration stance. Ali dismissed claims that the demonstration would signify the end of the counter-protest movement, asserting that the far-right is currently on the defensive. “We’re going to keep pushing,” she declared, indicating a commitment to ongoing activism against racism. As the protesters marched down Whitehall, tensions arose when a GB News reporter reported an incident involving a demonstrator who allegedly attacked a crew member. Charlie Peters, who had been covering the protest, noted that the atmosphere shifted when protesters recognized the news outlet, leading to chants of “GB News off our streets.” He lamented the necessity of security for journalists in such situations. Despite the tensions, police confirmed that no arrests were made during the protest, although one individual was briefly removed from the march. GB News later stated they did not wish to pursue the matter further.