Dan Thomas, the Member of the Senedd (MS) for Casnewydd Islwyn, has resigned as the leader of Reform UK in Wales following his arrest on suspicion of assault and controlling or coercive behaviour. The party confirmed on Monday that Thomas is standing down due to “personal reasons,” though he stated he had been released without charge and insisted he had done nothing wrong.
Gwent Police confirmed that a 45-year-old man from Aberbargoed in Caerphilly was arrested on Sunday, September 13. He remains on bail pending further enquiries.
Thomas, who was appointed to the role by Nigel Farage in February, told his party that he would continue to serve his constituents but would fully back whoever was selected as his successor. “It has been the honour of my life to have been the leader of Reform Wales and see this party go from zero to 34 elected members and become the largest opposition group in Welsh history,” he said. “With deep regret, I am now standing down from this position due to personal reasons.Over the weekend, I was reported to the police and was released without charge.”
Farage appointed him, now he steps down. Classic cycle of ambition and consequences for the party.
Coercive behaviour arrests are so common lately. It’s alarming how often this comes up in politics.
Released without charge is significant. We must presume innocence until proven otherwise in court.
This confirms the chaos I suspected. Can Reform UK Wales really rebuild after this scandal?