NIGEL FARAGE visited south Wales today (Oct 10) to back Reform UK’s campaign in the Caerphilly by-election — and to defend his party’s reputation following the shock revelation that former Reform Wales leader Nathan Gill has admitted taking bribes linked to pro-Russian activities.
Speaking to journalists at the campaign event, Farage said he felt “completely betrayed” by Gill, who pleaded guilty to eight counts of bribery earlier this week. The former MEP for Wales admitted accepting payments from Russian-linked interests to promote Kremlin narratives during his time in politics.
Farage, visibly frustrated, told reporters: “I’m shocked, frankly. I had absolutely no idea about any of this. It’s appalling, and he’s a bad apple who doesn’t represent who we are or what we stand for.”
He insisted that Gill’s actions had no connection to the modern Reform UK movement, adding that Gill had not been active within the party for several years. “This sort of behaviour is historic and disgraceful. It’s the opposite of what we’re trying to build — an honest, patriotic, and democratic movement for ordinary people in Wales and across the UK,” he said.
Farage was in Caerphilly to lend his support to Reform UK’s by-election candidate, Llŷr Powell, using the visit to speak with local voters and rally supporters ahead of polling day. He said the campaign was gaining momentum and reflected a wider shift in Welsh politics.
“I think Wales is changing,” Farage said. “People here are tired of being let down by the same establishment parties, and they’re looking for something real. That’s why I’m here — to support our candidate and show that Reform UK is serious about giving people a voice.”
Farage’s visit drew both supporters and protesters in the town centre, with one small group holding banners criticising his stance on immigration and climate policies.
The Independent and ITV Wales both reported that Farage used the event to distance himself from Gill’s conduct while reaffirming his commitment to expand Reform UK’s presence in Wales ahead of the next general and Senedd elections.
The Caerphilly by-election has attracted strong competition, with Richard Tunnicliffe standing for Welsh Labour, Lindsay Whittle for Plaid Cymru, Gareth Potter for the Welsh Conservatives, Steven Aicheler for the Welsh Liberal Democrats, Gareth Hughes for the Wales Green Party, Anthony Cook representing Gwlad, and Roger Quilliam for UKIP, alongside Reform UK’s Llŷr Powell.
