Key Highlights
- Reform UK announces Laila Cunningham as its candidate for the 2028 London mayoral election.
- Cunningham is a Westminster City Councillor and a former Conservative, who aims to challenge Labour Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan.
- The party leader Nigel Farage emphasized that Cunningham will be their campaign figurehead in upcoming local elections this May.
- Reform UK’s candidate promised tough measures on crime and plans to abolish the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (Ulez).
- Labour responded by accusing Reform of division, while other parties criticized the early announcement as premature.
New Sheriff in Town: Laila Cunningham Steps Forward for 2028 London Mayoral Election
Reform UK has officially named Westminster City Councillor Laila Cunningham as its candidate for the 2028 London mayoral election. The announcement, made on January 7, 2026, at a news conference attended by Reform’s leader Nigel Farage, signals the party’s renewed push to gain political ground in the capital. Cunningham’s entry into the race comes amidst a growing anticipation for the next local elections this May, where she will also serve as the face of Reform UK.
A Different Message from the East
Cunningham, born in London to Egyptian parents who immigrated in the 1960s and now practicing a Muslim faith, brings a distinct perspective to the political arena. Defecting from the Conservative Party last year, Cunningham believes she can offer a fresh approach to governance in a city that has seen steady leadership under Labour Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan.
In her first public remarks as Reform UK’s candidate, Cunningham declared: “There will be a new sheriff in town, and I’ll be launching an all-out war on crime.” Her priorities for the Metropolitan Police include tackling knife crime, drugs, robbery, shoplifting, and rape. She also plans to rewrite the London police and crime plan, issuing “new marching orders” to the Met.
Political Reaction: Division and Decline
The Labour Party quickly responded, labeling Reform UK as an entity offering nothing but division and decline for the city. The Labour spokesperson emphasized that Cunningham’s rhetoric of breaking down London’s multiculturalism and openness is misplaced, stating, “London represents everything Reform UK opposes: multiculturalism, openness, and confidence in our shared future.”
Other political players also weighed in on the early announcement. Liberal Democrat London spokesperson Luke Taylor MP echoed these sentiments, adding that Cunningham’s divisive tactics are merely aimed at sowing discord rather than addressing actual concerns faced by Londoners. He argued, “Reform UK seems to care more about division than solving real problems.” Meanwhile, Sir Sadiq Khan’s office maintained a measured response, stating, “Sir Sadiq is getting on with the job of delivering a fairer, safer, greener city for every Londoner.”
Reform UK’s Campaign Strategy
By announcing their candidate two and a half years before the election, Reform UK aims to set the stage early. Their strategy includes using Cunningham as a figurehead in upcoming local elections this May, where they hope to make gains and solidify their position for future contests.
Nigel Farage highlighted the significance of these upcoming elections: “This is the single most significant electoral test ahead of the next general election.” With only one councillor currently elected from Reform UK out of approximately 1,800 in London, they face a steep uphill battle. However, early indications suggest that Cunningham’s candidacy could mark a turning point for their party’s fortunes.
As the political landscape continues to evolve leading up to 2028, all eyes will be on Cunningham and her campaign to see if Reform UK can successfully challenge Labour’s long-standing control of London’s mayoralty. The coming months will provide crucial insights into both the future of Reform UK and its impact on London’s political dynamics.
Stay tuned for further developments as we navigate through this new chapter in London politics.
