Sheffield Reform says party's former councillors 'deceived electors' as Labour calls for their resignation
The councillors have said they wish to continue serving
Labour have launched a petition calling on the resignation of two councillors who left Reform only weeks after the local election - though they both plan to continue as independents.
The petition comes after widespread discussions over the future of councillors Mick Lee and Nathaniel Menday, who were elected as representatives of the Reform party on May 7 before both departing within the space of two weeks.
Coun Lee, for the Shiregreen and Brightside ward, cited internal disputes during the Sheffield branch’s leadership election when he resigned from the party.
Meanwhile, a Reform spokesperson claimed that Coun Menday, who represents Woodhouse, had “brought the party into disrepute” when deleted social media posts praising dictators were unearthed - he was subsequently suspended pending an investigation.
When launching their petition, Sheffield Labour wrote on Facebook: “Reform have brought chaos to our city already. They have lost two councillors in as many weeks.
“One is currently suspended over calling Nazi's 'visionaries' alongside other vile social media posts. Another has left the party following internal disputes.
“Both should resign. Add your name to call for them to go.”
While the petition was launched by the Labour group, Sheffield’s Reform branch have also suggested they support the resignation of both councillors.
Leader of the Sheffield Reform councillors group, John Hesketh, told The Star: “Sheffield Reform members I have spoken to have been critical of both Nathaniel Menday and Mick Lee, believing they’ve broken the ‘democratic contract’ between voters and elected representatives.
“More than one colleague has said to me that the pair, for different reasons, had deceived local electors and should stand down as councillors.”
Coun Lee has pointed out the expense associated with by-elections when explaining his decision to remain on as a councillor, while Coun Menday wrote on Facebook that if he resigned it would leave his constituents without a representative for a longer time.
Nevertheless, Coun Menday did announce that he would be travelling “a few thousand miles” to consider his future in politics back on May 19, and subsequently missed Sheffield City Council’s annual general meeting where both the Lord Mayor and council leader were appointed.
Coun Lee attended the meeting.
When questioned by The Star, Labour said they would work with the opposition if they show willingness.
A spokesperson for the party added: “Reform UK must take accountability for their vetting process that let candidates with views like Coun Menday walk into public office.
“Labour councillors will work with opposition councillors who show that they are willing to represent all their constituents.
“Coun Menday will struggle to do that from a sun lounger thousands of miles away from Sheffield.”