Reform UK rally LIVE: Sadiq Khan put on notice as Farage set to address major London event

Daily Express

January 9, 2026 6:48 PM

YoyoFeed Summarized

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage is addressing a large rally of supporters at the ExCeL Centre in central London. The event, attended by approximately 2,500 people, marks the launch of the party's campaign for the upcoming London council elections in May.

Laila Cunningham, recently announced as Reform UK's candidate for the 2028 Mayoral Election, is also speaking at the rally. Cunningham, a former Conservative Councillor, plans to focus her campaign on crime and housing affordability.

Speakers at the event, including former Conservative AM Keith Prince and Reform UK Chairman Dr. David Bull, have been critical of London Mayor Sadiq Khan, citing issues such as crime, shoplifting, and the cost of living, with Dr.

Bull demanding Khan's removal from office. Reform UK claims to be surging in London polls, with Dr.

Bull stating the party is now in second place in the capital. The rally also serves as a recruitment drive, aiming to attract voters and potential candidates from the Conservative Party.

Who is Laila Cunningham and what is her role in Reform UK?

Laila Cunningham is a former Conservative Councillor in Westminster who defected to Reform UK. She has been appointed as Reform UK's candidate for the 2028 Mayoral Election and is expected to focus her campaign on crime and housing affordability.

What are the main criticisms leveled against Sadiq Khan at the rally?

Speakers at the rally criticized Sadiq Khan for what they described as unacceptable crime levels, including the decriminalization of shoplifting, rising business costs, a perceived lack of law and order, and an 'exodus' of young people from the city. They demanded his removal from office, stating he is 'out of his depth, out of time'.

What is Reform UK's current standing in London, according to the rally speakers?

According to speakers at the rally, Reform UK claims to be surging in London and is now in second place in the capital's polls. The party aims to shake up London politics and is targeting outer London boroughs, traditionally Conservative strongholds, in the upcoming May council elections.