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Leader of Reform UK in Wales stands down after arrest on suspicion of assault
On Tuesday, September 15, 2026, Reform Wales leader Dan Thomas announced his resignation citing 'personal reasons,' though he will continue serving as Senedd member for Casnewydd Islwyn and back whoever succeeds him.
Gwent Police stated a 45-year-old man from Aberbargoed was arrested Sunday, September 13, on suspicion of assault and controlling or coercive behaviour; Thomas stated he was released without charge, though police confirmed he remains bailed pending enquiries.
Following the resignation, Pen-y-Bont Bro Morgannwg MS Sarah Cooper-Lesadd defected from Reform to Plaid Cymru, reducing the party's Senedd representation to 33 members after it had grown from two to 34 in May's election.
Welsh Labour leader Ken Skates called the resignation 'quite incredible news' requiring answers, while Shadow Welsh Secretary Mims Davies said Reform was 'hitting the news for all the wrong reasons' and raised 'serious questions about Reform's judgement.'
Thomas, hand-picked by Nigel Farage in February 2025 to lead Reform in Wales, was a former Conservative leader of Barnet Council whose tenure lasted only months, prompting critics to question Farage's judgment in the appointment.