Arabic version: إصلاح المملكة المتحدة يعلق مرشحه بسبب مزاعم سوء السلوك المالي

Reform UK has suspended Stuart Niven, its candidate for Dundee City West in the upcoming Holyrood election, following financial allegations. The suspension came just a day after his candidacy was announced, as questions arose regarding his disqualification as a company director.

According to BBC News, Niven was banned from acting as a company director for seven years after diverting thousands of pounds from a taxpayer-backed Covid loan into his personal account. The party is currently investigating these allegations.

Malcolm Offord, Reform UK’s Scotland leader, stated that the party had conducted thorough vetting of its candidates. However, he acknowledged that some candidates have made controversial remarks on social media, indicating that the party would not prevent individuals from standing due to past statements.

The party’s manifesto for the Holyrood election was launched recently, with Offord promising to cut income tax if elected. Current polling suggests that Reform UK may secure around 20% of the vote, potentially positioning it as the second-largest party in the Scottish Parliament.

The election is set for May 7, when voters will select 129 members of the Scottish Parliament. The controversy surrounding Niven’s suspension highlights the challenges Reform UK faces as it navigates public scrutiny in the lead-up to the election.