Reform UK in Wales navigated a tumultuous week marked by the arrest of its leader, Dan Thomas, and the subsequent defection of a Member of the Senedd (MS), Sarah Cooper-Lesadd, to Plaid Cymru. The events culminated in the party’s internal processes to select a new leader, highlighting significant challenges for the political group.

Reform Leader’s Arrest and Statement

The week’s turmoil began on Sunday, when Dan Thomas, Reform’s leader in Wales, was arrested on suspicion of assault and controlling or coercive behaviour. Thomas, who was at the BBC’s offices in Cardiff for an appearance on the program ‘Politics Wales’ earlier that day, was taken into custody. He later stated he had been “released without charge” and maintained he had “done nothing wrong.” News of the arrest surfaced publicly on Monday evening, reaching journalists and senior Reform figures in Wales, though some in the party’s London headquarters, including Nigel Farage, had been informed earlier.

By Tuesday morning, the situation had created considerable “confusion” among Reform MSs during their weekly group meeting. With “the rumour mill going wild,” members were not fully briefed but were cautioned about “a tough few days” ahead. Dan Thomas was absent from the meeting and also from his usual seat in the Senedd chamber for First Minister’s Questions, with his deputy, Helen Jenner, stepping in. The party initially cited “personal reasons” for Thomas’s absence, but the unfolding events made a public statement inevitable. Despite attempts by a Reform barrister to block media reporting through a legal letter, news organizations had already secured confirmation of the arrest. Subsequently, Thomas sent a WhatsApp message to his party’s MSs, explaining the situation and announcing his decision to step down as leader. He continues to serve as the Reform MS for Casnewydd Islwyn.

Senedd Member Defects to Plaid Cymru

Adding to the party’s difficulties, Reform MS Sarah Cooper-Lesadd, representing Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg, announced her defection to Plaid Cymru. This news emerged shortly after BBC Wales contacted Reform for a response, indicating the party was unaware of the move until it was about to break. Cooper-Lesadd had been present in the Senedd chamber moments before, occupying a Reform bench and scheduled to speak for the party.

The defection process required approval from Plaid Cymru’s MSs, including some government ministers, who were informed during their own group meeting earlier that day. While the move was ultimately approved by the necessary two-thirds majority, it was not universally supported, with some Plaid MSs seeking assurances about Cooper-Lesadd’s commitment to their party’s principles. At a press conference, Cooper-Lesadd described her switch as the result of “a period of reflection and deliberation,” stating she had found “the right political home.” Both Cooper-Lesadd and Plaid Cymru have remained tight-lipped about the specifics of when and how discussions began, only confirming that the process had been ongoing “for a while” and that she had been on a “journey.” This defection, occurring just four months after the Senedd election, has reignited debate about the electoral system, which requires voters to support a party rather than an individual candidate.

Jess Blair of the Electoral Reform Society commented on the implications, noting that while defections are not uncommon, the current Welsh voting system creates an “accountability gap.” She emphasized the need for a review mechanism, which was part of the system’s original design, to be implemented.

Selecting a New Leader

By Wednesday, Reform’s focus shifted to electing a new leader. A party official from London attended a meeting with the MSs to outline the process, with Dan Thomas also present. Several names were reportedly discussed as potential successors. James Evans was considered a strong contender, and reporters anticipated his announcement. However, Evans ultimately declared he would not be putting his name forward, despite reportedly having the backing of a “majority” of the party’s MSs. “Having consulted with my family…I will not be putting my name forward,” he stated.

By Thursday morning, Helen Jenner emerged as the likely successor. Although Reform UK leadership in London has not formally intervened, sources suggest that Jenner, a long-time ally of Nigel Farage dating back to his UKIP days, would be viewed favorably by party headquarters. Confirmation of Jenner’s appointment was anticipated as early as the following Monday.

Party Unity and Future Outlook

Despite the turbulent events, Reform’s chief whip in the Senedd, Llŷr Powell, expressed a sense of resilience. “It’s been challenging but we’ve come through it,” he remarked. “I feel we’re more united than ever,” Powell added. “For us it’s a new start next week and that’s what we’re building on.” The party is looking to move forward under new leadership and consolidate its position following a period of significant upheaval.