Nigel Farage has accused Green Party leader Zack Polanski of sharing an “inciteful” social media post and suggested he should face the same scrutiny that politicians on the right often receive over online content.
The Reform UK leader posted a screenshot on X of an Instagram post that had appeared on Mr Polanski’s account. The image showed a man wearing a rainbow cap and a black T-shirt featuring a guillotine, accompanied by the caption: “We’re only making plans for Nigel.”
Mr Farage alleged the post crossed a line, writing: “This is what Zack Polanski has just posted on his Instagram. If I was to post anything as inciteful then I would expect to be arrested, and so should Polanski.
The post, which received hundreds of likes before being removed, has reignited debate over political rhetoric and the responsibilities of public figures on social media.
A Green Party spokesperson said Mr Polanski had accepted a request to collaborate on a post containing multiple images after attending a public event and had not initially seen the disputed photograph.
“Once this image was brought to his attention he immediately unshared the post,” the spokesperson said. “He unequivocally does not support this type of dangerous message.”
The episode comes amid heightened concern over the safety of elected representatives following a series of threats against politicians and the recent death of former Conservative minister and columnist Ann Widdecombe.
Earlier this month, a man was arrested on suspicion of sending threatening communications after Nigel Farage disclosed that he had received a message stating: “I am going to shoot you in the head if you win.
Mr Farage has repeatedly argued that threats directed at politicians should be treated consistently regardless of party affiliation. Parliamentary authorities and ministers have said security arrangements for MPs remain under constant review, with the Home Office previously confirming that Mr Farage had been offered discussions with officials responsible for parliamentary security.
The latest dispute is likely to intensify scrutiny of the standards expected of political leaders as concerns over online hostility continue to grow.
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