In a major development in UK political circles, Rupert Lowe, the suspended Reform UK MP, has been officially cleared of any criminal wrongdoing after allegations of verbal threats against party chairman Zia Yusuf were dismissed by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). The decision not to press charges comes after weeks of internal party strife and intense media scrutiny, further intensifying the ongoing conflict within Reform UK.
Lowe, a former Brexit Party MEP and vocal critic of Nigel Farage’s leadership, has alleged that the entire complaint was a politically motivated smear campaign aimed at silencing dissent within the party. This ruling brings an important legal chapter to a close—but leaves Reform UK grappling with deeper questions of leadership, integrity, and transparency.
CPS Decision: No Criminal Charges
The Crown Prosecution Service announced it would not pursue charges against Rupert Lowe, citing insufficient evidence to support the claim that he made criminal threats against Zia Yusuf. After an extensive review involving multiple witness statements, the CPS concluded that there was no realistic prospect of conviction.
Malcolm McHaffie, head of the CPS special crime division, clarified that their review was “thorough and impartial” and that the decision was strictly based on the legal merits of the case—not the political implications.
Lowe responded defiantly, declaring,
“This was a sinister attempt to weaponize the criminal justice system to punish political disagreement. I am relieved but not surprised by the CPS decision.”
Background: A Party at War With Itself
The case stems from an internal meltdown within Reform UK, which has been experiencing a wave of internal dissent and public controversies. In March 2025, Lowe was suspended by the party following allegations that he verbally threatened Yusuf and engaged in inappropriate conduct towards female staff members.
While the police complaint centered on the alleged threats, a separate internal investigation commissioned by Reform UK, and led by barrister Jacqueline Perry KC, found “credible evidence” that Lowe and members of his team had mistreated two women in the party. The report cited “harassment, intimidation, and inappropriate behavior,” further damaging Lowe’s public standing.
However, Lowe has rejected the findings outright, calling them “fabricated lies” designed to discredit him after he criticized what he calls the “dictatorial leadership” of party figurehead Nigel Farage.
Political Fallout: Civil War Inside Reform UK
This case has become more than a legal matter—it’s a flashpoint in an escalating civil war inside Reform UK. Lowe, once considered a rising star in the party, has turned into one of its most vocal detractors. Since his suspension, he has gone public with a string of accusations, claiming:
- The party is undemocratically run to serve Farage’s personal agenda.
- Dissenting voices are punished rather than debated.
- Internal investigations are manipulated to serve political ends.
He recently urged Reform UK supporters to abandon the party entirely, stating,
“This is no longer the people’s movement. It’s a private club run for the benefit of one man.”
The leadership has remained largely silent on Lowe’s accusations, with party chairman Zia Yusuf only saying the matter has been “dealt with internally.”
Public and Political Reaction
While many in Westminster see the CPS decision as vindication for Lowe on legal grounds, there is growing concern over how Reform UK is managing internal disputes. Political analysts note that this case has exposed serious weaknesses in party cohesion and governance.
Some have even questioned whether the Farage-led movement—once hailed as the voice of the Brexit majority—can survive long-term if internal dissent continues to boil over. Reform UK has seen a bump in polling due to immigration concerns, but scandals like this risk derailing momentum ahead of upcoming elections.
What’s Next for Rupert Lowe?
With the CPS case behind him, Rupert Lowe has hinted at returning to public life—though not necessarily through Reform UK. He’s been active on social media, teasing the formation of a new grassroots movement and calling for a “truly democratic reform of politics.”
However, the internal party report still casts a long shadow. Despite escaping criminal charges, the harassment findings could prove toxic in any future electoral campaign. His political comeback, if it happens, will likely depend on how voters perceive his role in this saga.
Conclusion
Rupert Lowe’s legal exoneration marks a turning point in one of Reform UK’s most public internal clashes to date. While he walks free of criminal charges, the political storm surrounding his suspension, the allegations of harassment, and his feud with the party leadership continues to rage.
As Reform UK attempts to present itself as a serious political force, it must now reckon with the reputational damage inflicted by this high-profile dispute—and decide whether it values loyalty over scrutiny, or dissent over discipline.
FAQs
Q1: Why was Rupert Lowe under investigation?
He was accused of making verbal threats to Reform UK chairman Zia Yusuf, and of harassment toward female staffers, prompting a police report and internal party probe.
Q2: What did the CPS decide?
The CPS said there was insufficient evidence to bring criminal charges against Lowe, citing no realistic prospect of conviction.
Q3: What were the findings of Reform UK’s internal investigation?
An independent legal review found credible evidence that Lowe and his staff mistreated two women, though Lowe denies these allegations.
Q4: What does Rupert Lowe say about the case?
He claims the allegations were part of a smear campaign by Reform UK leaders in retaliation for his criticisms of Nigel Farage.
Q5: What’s next for Reform UK?
The party faces internal divisions and reputational challenges, even as it gains traction on hot-button issues like immigration. How it handles internal dissent may define its future.
