Member of Senedd defects to Plaid Cymru amid Reform UK turmoil
A member of the Senedd who defected from Reform UK to Plaid Cymru following the resignation of the party’s leader has described Nigel Farage’s party as “falling apart at the seams,” reports BritPanorama.
Sarah Cooper-Lesadd announced her departure from Reform UK on the same day it was revealed that Dan Thomas, the party’s Welsh leader, had been arrested on suspicion of assault and controlling or coercive behaviour.
Cooper-Lesadd stated that the party “just completely did not chime with the type of person that I am and the values that I have.”
Speaking to the BBC, she elaborated on her reasons, describing Reform UK as “completely chaotic” and added that “it really, really is” falling apart. Her move to Plaid Cymru reflects a growing discontent within Reform UK.
Thomas, elected in February, led Reform to become the second-largest party in the Senedd in May. However, he resigned on Tuesday after being arrested. Although released without charge, he cited “personal reasons” for stepping down but will remain a member of the Senedd.
Following the announcement of Thomas’ resignation, Plaid Cymru confirmed Cooper-Lesadd’s switch. In a statement, she criticized Reform UK for having “no interest in Wales,” suggesting it was merely a vehicle for Farage’s ambitions.
Reaffirming her stance, Cooper-Lesadd said, “They are not serious about governing Wales,” expressing her frustration with the party’s focus on “division, opposition and headlines” rather than solutions.
She further indicated her support for Welsh independence in the event of a vote and revealed her stance as a Remain voter in the 2016 Brexit referendum.
Thomas expressed regret over his resignation, emphasizing that he did not wish for the headlines surrounding his situation to distract from the work of the Senedd team.
In a statement, Gwent Police confirmed the arrest of a 45-year-old man on suspicion of assault and engaging in controlling or coercive behaviour, pending further enquiries.
Ken Skates, leader of Welsh Labour, remarked on the gravity of the situation, stating, “This is quite incredible news and many questions will need to be answered,” pointing to the implications of Thomas’s arrest for Reform UK’s leadership.
