A local branch of the Reform UK party has been criticized for a Facebook comment suggesting a Welsh minister was using her late husband's death for "political gain." The remark, made by the Reform UK Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd constituency page, targeted Plaid Cymru minister Siân Gwenllian.
Gwenllian had spoken about her husband's passing in a profile for WalesOnline, describing it as a difficult period that fostered empathy and resilience. "I can empathise with lots of people in vulnerable situations but it also taught me, 'gosh, well, if I can do that, I can do anything'," she was quoted as saying.
The WalesOnline Facebook post highlighted her comments on the tragedy. In response, the Reform branch account posted, "We have all had family tragedies, but we don't use it as a card for political gain."
This comment prompted a strong reaction from other politicians. Plaid Cymru MS Beca Brown called the remark "vile," stating that politicians across parties, including Reform UK, often draw on personal experiences to connect with constituents. Brown added that sharing such experiences can make others feel less alone and draw attention to the suffering of others.
A spokesperson for Plaid Cymru told BBC Wales that the Reform UK Brycheiniog Tawe Nedd page "must reflect on their disgusting comment." The spokesperson also stated that local Reform MS James Evans should condemn the "abhorrent statement."