Full Breakdown
Green Party Leader Reported to Police Over Instagram Post Allegedly Inciting Murder of Nigel Farage
7/28/2026, 11:05:12 AM
Core Event
On July 27, the Metropolitan Police confirmed they had received a third-party report concerning an Instagram image shared by Green Party leader Zack Polanski. Reform UK reported the post to police, accusing Polanski of “inciting murder.” The image was later removed from Polanski’s account, which has 713 k followers.
Background & Context
The T-shirt slogan derives from “Making Plans for Nigel,” the 1979 lead single by English rock band XTC. The post appeared weeks after the murder of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe, who was killed in her Devon home in a “planned and targeted” hammer attack that prosecutors said involved 21 blows to the head. The timing heightened concerns about the security of public figures, prompting calls for a review of MP protection.
Data & Statistics
Official Statements & Responses
- Reform UK home-affairs spokesperson Zia Yusuf labeled the post “inciting murder” and urged police treatment as such.
- The spokesperson described the T-shirt as “poor taste” given heightened fears for public-figure security.
- The Metropolitan Police said they take such reports “extremely seriously” and that officers are conducting inquiries.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham called for a “serious review” of MPs’ security in the wake of Widdecombe’s death, warning that “politics has darkened” and that social-media toxicity may be contributing to threats.
- According to the BBC, Polanski has not been contacted by police, indicating a possible gap in the investigative process.
Criticism & Opposition
The party’s stance contrasts with the Green Party’s assertion that Polanski did not intend to promote incitement and acted to remove the content once identified.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Metropolitan Police acknowledge an ongoing inquiry, the BBC reports that Polanski has not been approached by police. This discrepancy leaves unclear whether formal questioning has occurred.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We take reports of this nature extremely seriously, and officers are conducting inquiries into the matter.” — Zia Yusuf, home affairs spokesperson
