More than 100,000 people participate in London rally organized by far-right leader Tommy Robinson.
In a significant demonstration of political sentiment, tens of thousands gathered in London for a rally organized by activist Tommy Robinson, co-founder of the English Defence League, a group known for its strong stance against Islamism. The event, branded as the “Unite the Kingdom” rally, drew roughly 110,000 participants according to estimates from the Metropolitan Police, marking a notable show of support for the anti-immigrant Reform UK party, which is gaining traction within British politics.
Participants marched from two locations—Waterloo Bridge and Lambeth Bridge—converging near Whitehall, in close proximity to the UK Parliament. The atmosphere featured a variety of flags, including Union Jacks and the St George’s Cross, as attendees expressed their views on national identity and immigration.
Robinson, who also goes by Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, framed the event as a defense of free speech and British cultural heritage. He asserted that migrants are perceived to have more legal rights than British citizens, a narrative that resonated with segments of the crowd, reflecting current debates surrounding immigration policies in the United Kingdom.
The Metropolitan Police reinforced security measures, deploying over 1,600 officers to maintain order between Robinson’s supporters and a counter-protest organized by the “Stand Up to Racism” group, which attracted approximately 5,000 participants. This counter-protest aimed to challenge the growing far-right sentiment and promote a narrative of inclusivity, with demonstrators advocating for the welcoming of refugees and opposing racism.
As tension flared, multiple officers faced aggression while trying to uphold a buffer zone between the two groups, ultimately leading to nine arrests. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges surrounding discussions of race, immigration, and national identity in the UK.
The rally occurred amid a backdrop of rising anti-immigrant sentiment, particularly following legal controversies involving asylum seekers. Public sentiments expressed at the rally indicate a growing concern over social services and housing, with some attendees calling for solutions that address both homelessness among locals and the needs of immigrants.
While the size and fervor of Robinson’s rally were considerable, they were dwarfed by larger pro-Palestinian demonstrations that have attracted hundreds of thousands in recent months, showcasing a diverse spectrum of political activism in the UK.
The rising profile of the Reform UK party suggests a shift in the political landscape, potentially reshaping the dynamics of the forthcoming general election.
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