What's happened
Kent County Council faces ongoing chaos after multiple suspensions and resignations within Reform UK, following leaked footage of internal disputes and misconduct allegations. The council's stability is in question as members challenge leadership and debate potential tax increases amid a political crisis. The story is current as of Thu, 13 Nov 2025.
What's behind the headline?
The ongoing chaos within Kent County Council highlights the fragility of Reform UK's local governance strategy. The leaked footage and subsequent suspensions expose deep internal divisions and a leadership style that appears increasingly authoritarian. This turmoil undermines public trust and risks impairing essential services, especially as debates over council tax rises intensify. The situation suggests that without significant leadership reform, the council's ability to function effectively will deteriorate further, potentially prompting intervention or restructuring. The broader political implications include increased scrutiny of Reform UK's national ambitions, as local governance crises threaten to tarnish its reputation and electoral prospects.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that the chaos stems from leaked footage of Linden Kemkaran berating colleagues and her dismissive attitude towards dissent, which has led to multiple suspensions and resignations. The Mirror highlights the suspension of nine councillors, including key figures, and describes the council's leadership as 'captain chaos,' emphasizing the breakdown in governance and public safety concerns. Both sources underscore the internal conflicts and political instability, with The Guardian providing context on the internal tensions and the party's broader struggles in Kent, including the impact on local services and the potential for further destabilization.
How we got here
Reform UK gained control of Kent County Council in May 2025, winning 57 of 81 seats. Internal tensions surfaced after leaked footage revealed leader Linden Kemkaran berating colleagues and making controversial remarks. Several councillors have been suspended or expelled following investigations into misconduct, leading to a political crisis and questions over council stability and decision-making.
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