Reform UK’s primary council is under fire for allegedly breaking its election vows by suggesting a nearly 4% increase in council tax. Kent County Council, which was won by Nigel Farage’s party in the local elections of May 2025, had promised to showcase what a Reform government could achieve in Downing Street. However, the draft budget released by KCC this week includes a proposal for a 3.99% council tax hike, despite prior commitments to reduce taxes.
While the proposed increase is below the maximum 5% threshold that councils can raise council tax without local referendum or central government approval, campaign materials from Reform candidates before the election had emphasized intentions to cut waste and lower taxes.
The opposition Liberal Democrats at KCC have accused Reform of financial mismanagement and a complete abandonment of their election pledges. Leader Antony Hook criticized Reform for failing to deliver on their promise of savings and tax reduction, highlighting the disappointment of a nearly 4% increase compared to the promised tax cuts. The Reform-led Staffordshire council also recently proposed a similar 3.99% increase in residents’ bills for the upcoming financial year 2026-2027.
In response to the criticism, Linden Kemkaran, the leader of Reform’s Kent County Council, defended the council’s decision, citing the challenging financial situation inherited by the administration. Kemkaran explained that the proposed council tax increase for 2026 was necessary due to existing debt and growing pressures on essential services. She emphasized the council’s efforts in financial management and efficiency to keep the increase below previous expectations.
Notably, last year saw the suspension of four Reform UK councillors from the council following a leaked Zoom video showing a turbulent council meeting. In the video, Ms. Kemkaran addressed the members, asserting her leadership style and decision-making process, reminiscent of a viral council meeting incident during the pandemic. Kent County Council is scheduled to finalize its budget and council tax decision on February 12.