The streets of London saw an immense turnout of demonstrators. Right-wing protesters brandished placards and chanted anti-government slogans. Some carried the Union Flag, while others held the red and white St. George's Cross. These individuals had come together in Central London for the anti-immigration demonstration, dubbed the 'Unite the Kingdom' march. At the forefront was anti-immigration activist Tommy Robinson. Let's delve deeper into who Tommy Robinson is, the person whose appeal drew approximately 110,000 people to the streets.
Tommy Robinson, 41, is actually named Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, and he’s spent several years entangled with courtrooms and prisons. He has long expressed dissatisfaction with Islam, the growing immigration issues in Britain, and the media. He has even admitted to squandering donations meant for support on alcohol and parties.
According to the AP News Agency, Robinson founded the English Defence League (EDL) in 2009, a street movement often linked to violent clashes and football hooliganism. In 2013, he stepped down as leader citing concerns over escalating extremism but remained active as an activist and online broadcaster.
Source: aajtak
Extensive Criminal Record
Robinson has a notably long criminal record, with charges including assault, hostage situations, fraud, and contempt of court. In 2018, he was imprisoned for livestreaming outside a trial. In 2024, he faced an 18-month sentence for ignoring a High Court order.
Source: aajtak
Squandered Donations on Gambling
Financial troubles have also plagued him. In 2021, he declared bankruptcy, admitting to losing millions of pounds in donation money to gambling. Despite this, he retains significant influence. After being banned from Twitter in 2018, he regained access when Elon Musk acquired the platform now called X. He has over a million followers on X. Critics see him as a figure promoting division, while supporters hail him as a champion of free speech and patriotism.
Source: aajtak
