Former Reform politician defects to Plaid Cymru amid controversy
A former Reform politician, Sarah Cooper-Lesadd, has defected to Plaid Cymru after only four months in the Senedd, with accusations of dishonesty from Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice, who claims she “lied” about her views, reports BritPanorama.
Tice accused Cooper-Lesadd of “deliberately misleading” the party and noted that it undermines the vetting process when individuals are dishonest. The controversy follows Cooper-Lesadd’s assertion that Reform UK is more focused on creating division rather than seeking constructive solutions.
Since her election as a Reform Member of the Senedd, Cooper-Lesadd has publicly criticized the party’s approach, stating it shows “no interest in Wales” and views the Senedd merely as a stepping stone for Nigel Farage’s ambitions.
Plaid Cymru has defended Cooper-Lesadd, asserting that she has been transparent about her political stance and that her views have evolved since her entry into politics. In response to the accusations, Tice questioned how someone could shift from supporting unionism to advocating for separatism, highlighting what he perceives as contradictions in her political journey.
Tice, speaking on BBC Radio Wales, remarked on the absurdity of Cooper-Lesadd’s political shift, questioning how one can go from defending national borders to opening them up in a bid to become a “nation of sanctuary.” He emphasized that the party has made swift decisions but does not claim perfection.
The events follow a turbulent week for Reform UK in Wales, marked by the resignation of the party’s Welsh leader Dan Thomas, who was arrested on suspicion of assault. Tice refrained from confirming whether deputy leader Helen Jenner would assume Thomas’s responsibilities, focusing instead on the party’s resilience.
He stated, “Life is work in progress,” emphasizing the party’s significant representation in Wales and its commitment to addressing vital issues affecting the region.
As the dust settles on the recent upheavals, both Cooper-Lesadd and Plaid Cymru have been contacted for further comment.
