The Green Party leader Zack Polanski is facing criticism and a police investigation after sharing a social media post featuring a man wearing a T-shirt with a guillotine image and the words “We’re only making plans for Nigel,” referring to Reform UK leader Nigel Farage. The post, which appeared on Polanski’s Instagram account boasting over 700,000 followers, was widely condemned across the political spectrum for its perceived incitement of violence.

The controversy arose shortly after the death of Ann Widdecombe, a former Conservative MP and Reform UK spokesperson, who was killed in her home in Devon earlier this month. Reform UK members and supporters have expressed particular concern given Farage’s reported history of receiving numerous threats, including death threats, and police protection arrangements. Reform’s Robert Jenrick described the post as "deeply inappropriate" and said it demonstrated that Polanski was unfit to lead a national political party. Reform UK has reported the post to the Metropolitan Police, prompting an ongoing investigation.

Polanski and the Green Party maintain that he did not intend to promote the image and that he was tagged in a series of around 20 images, some of which he was unaware contained such content. A party spokesman said Polanski “condemns” the message and called for kindness and reduced division in political discourse. Despite this, Polanski has not issued a direct apology to Farage.

Farage accused Polanski of making Reform politicians “legitimate targets” for violence, highlighting the hostile environment faced by Reform UK figures, including attacks and threats over recent years. Farage also criticized the broader political environment for fostering hatred and called for consequences for Polanski’s actions. Some Reform UK officials and supporters have expressed frustration with what they perceive as a lack of sufficient response or accountability from Polanski and his party.

Meanwhile, figures from other parties have weighed in, urging politicians to exercise caution on social media in light of recent violent incidents involving public figures. Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden highlighted the need for responsibility, recalling the gravity of Widdecombe’s death. Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch criticized Polanski and Farage for spending too much time on social media rather than engaging with constituents.

Commentators have noted that while Polanski’s share of the post was reckless and inadvisable, other politicians, including some Reform UK members, have also contributed to a polarized and at times incendiary political atmosphere by using hostile language on social platforms. Reform’s home affairs spokesman Zia Yusuf, for example, has himself been criticized for similarly provocative remarks.

The incident has prompted renewed calls for a reduction in political hostility and for all parties to reconsider their approach to public discourse online amid growing concerns about the safety of politicians. The police are continuing their enquiries into the reported post.