The deputy leader of Leicestershire County Council has been removed from his position after a three-month tenure.
Joseph Boam of Reform UK has also been relieved of his duties as cabinet member for adult social care. A party source indicated that he would be transitioning to a “new role,” the specifics of which remain undisclosed.
The 22-year-old was among the 25 Reform councillors elected to the authority during the local elections in May.
In a social media post on Sunday, Boam stated: “Despite the recent news, nothing’s changed. I’ll keep fighting for Whitwick at County Hall and doing everything I can to help get a Reform UK government and Nigel Farage as our next prime minister.”
County council leader Dan Harrison informed the Local Democracy Reporting Service (LDRS) that he would withhold comment until after the Reform group’s meeting later in the week.
According to the LDRS, Boam previously commented: “I haven’t stepped down from any role. I am no longer deputy leader or in cabinet, but have been offered a cabinet support role which I’m inclined to take.”
Following their victory in 25 of the council’s 55 seats, Reform wrested control from the Conservatives, establishing a minority administration.
A Reform UK source added: “Joseph deserves thanks for his role in helping to establish the Reform group at Leicestershire County Council, and we wish him well as he moves into a new role, where he will continue to support the group’s efforts at County Hall.”
The Leicestershire Conservative group, the primary opposition within the authority, has characterized Reform UK’s local leadership as a “shambles.”
Their leader, Deborah Taylor, stated that it was “no surprise” to her that Boam “has been shown the door after just three months.”
She further added: “He was wholly unqualified for such a critical role and lacked the experience or judgement to bring anything of value to the position.”
“Those of us who have led this council know that it takes at least six to 12 months for even the most capable new councillor to properly learn their portfolio, and that’s with the benefit of mentoring from seasoned colleagues.”
A new deputy leader and cabinet member for adult social care are expected to be appointed in due course.
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