Nigel Farage’s denial of accusations of racist remarks from his school days has been strongly challenged by former classmates. A group of 25 ex-schoolmates and one former teacher recently united to express their “dismay and anger” at the response of the Reform UK leader to the allegations.
Allegations have surfaced accusing Mr. Farage of making racist and antisemitic comments during his time at Dulwich College. The claims include statements such as “Hitler was right” and references to Nazi gas chambers. Despite mounting pressure for an apology, Mr. Farage has consistently refuted the accusations, with Reform UK dismissing them as part of a smear campaign.
In a joint letter, the 26 individuals emphasized that their claims are not politically motivated but based on personal experiences. They highlighted their diverse professional backgrounds and political views, stating that their decision to speak out was prompted by Mr. Farage’s denials and the need for accountability from those seeking public office.
The signatories disputed any suggestion that their timing was influenced by Reform’s recent rise in popularity, pointing out that similar allegations had been reported as early as 2013. They stressed the importance of honesty and accountability for individuals aspiring to leadership positions, urging Mr. Farage to acknowledge his past behavior and issue an apology.
Additionally, the group rejected Mr. Farage’s attempt to contextualize his remarks within the cultural norms of the time, stating that his behavior went beyond societal standards of the era. They detailed instances where Mr. Farage allegedly targeted individuals with derogatory and racially charged language, emphasizing the gravity of his actions.
Labour chairwoman Anna Turley condemned Mr. Farage’s response to the allegations, calling for a sincere apology to those who came forward. She criticized his avoidance of accountability and transparency, suggesting that his actions cast doubt on his suitability for public office.
The ongoing dispute has drawn attention to the need for integrity and accountability from public figures, especially when confronted with past actions that raise serious concerns about character and judgment.