STORY
Count Binface could become Nigel Farage’s only opponent in the forthcoming Clacton by-election after Britain’s principal political parties announced that they would not field candidates. The satirical campaigner has confirmed that he intends to stand, potentially leaving voters with a straight choice between the Reform UK leader and a self-described intergalactic space warrior wearing a silver dustbin on his head.
Farage triggered the contest by announcing his resignation as the MP for Clacton before confirming that he would immediately seek re-election. He has presented the contest as an opportunity for local voters to judge his conduct amid scrutiny of his financial affairs and declared support.
Labour, the Conservatives, the Liberal Democrats and the Green Party have all said that they will not contest the election. Restore Britain has also ruled out standing, with Farage’s opponents arguing that they do not want to participate in what they regard as a political stunt intended to divert attention from the allegations surrounding him.
Their withdrawal means Count Binface is currently expected to be Farage’s only challenger, although the formal list of candidates will not be confirmed until nominations have closed. Other independent or minor-party candidates could still enter the contest before the deadline.
Count Binface, the creation of comedian Jonathan Harvey, has previously stood in elections against figures including former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and London Mayor Sadiq Khan. His campaigns combine political satire with deliberately absurd promises, although he has said his candidacy is also intended to demonstrate the importance of democratic choice.
He has promised to stand as a “unity candidate” in Clacton and has pledged to build at least one affordable home. His reported manifesto also includes restoring Ceefax and ensuring that a 99 Flake costs no more than 99p. Count Binface said he did not know whether he would receive any votes and joked that the situation might be a “fever dream”.
Farage won Clacton at the 2024 general election with 21,225 votes, securing 46.2 per cent of the vote and an 8,405 majority over the Conservatives.