April 22, 2025
Rupert Lowe, the independent MP for Great Yarmouth and former Reform UK member, has ignited controversy with a series of inflammatory posts on X (formerly Twitter). The posts, which include a dismissive remark about reparations for trans-Atlantic slavery, have drawn widespread condemnation.
Lowe, who was elected in 2024 as a Reform UK candidate, was suspended from the party less than a month ago following allegations of workplace bullying and threats of physical violence against two female employees. Despite his suspension, Lowe has maintained an active online presence, often engaging in heated debates over migration and other contentious issues.
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On 21 April, Lowe posted: “Here is a succinct and evidence-based response to anyone calling for slavery reparations from Britain. S0d off. Please feel free to use it as you see fit.” The post was met with backlash, with critics accusing Lowe of racism and insensitivity towards the historical injustices of slavery.
Here's a succinct and evidence-based response to anyone calling for slavery reparations from Britain.
— Rupert Lowe MP (@RupertLowe10) April 21, 2025
Sod off.
Please feel free to use it as you see fit.
The African Union has also declared 2025 as the "Year of Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations"
The transatlantic slave trade, spanning from the 15th to the 19th centuries, forcibly transported millions of Africans to the Americas and the Caribbean. These individuals were subjected to brutal conditions, working primarily on plantations to produce goods such as sugar, cotton, and tobacco. The trade was a cornerstone of European colonial economies, with nations like Britain, France, and Spain profiting immensely from the exploitation of enslaved people. It is estimated that between 25 and 30 million Africans were uprooted during this period.
In recent years, calls for reparations have gained momentum globally. Advocacy groups, descendants of enslaved people, and organisations like CARICOM (Caribbean Community) have been at the forefront of this movement. CARICOM has developed a 10-point plan for reparatory justice, urging European nations to issue formal apologies, provide financial compensation, and invest in educational and health initiatives in affected regions
Lowe followed up with another post targeting immigrants, referencing Home Office figures on foreign national criminals. He shared data from the "League Tables of foreign national criminals," a compilation of statistics on criminal activity in the UK based on nationality. The tweet was criticised for perpetuating anti-immigrant sentiment and stoking division.
Lowe’s online activity has long been a source of controversy, with his posts often reflecting the hardline stance he took as a Reform UK MP. His recent remarks have further isolated him politically, as calls grow for accountability and action against divisive rhetoric from public figures.
