More than 110,000 people marched through central London on Saturday in a mass rally organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson, with police deploying around 1,000 officers to manage tensions between rival demonstrations.
The event, branded by Robinson as the UK’s “biggest free speech festival”, began south of Westminster before crossing Westminster Bridge and concluding near Downing Street. Attendees — many waving Union Jacks, St George’s crosses, and Christian symbols — listened to speeches from far-right figures across Europe and North America.
“The silent majority will be silent no longer,” Robinson declared, calling the rally the spark of a “cultural revolution.”
Police used CCTV and helicopter footage to estimate turnout at around 110,000, while roughly 5,000 people joined a counter-protest organised by Stand Up to Racism a mile away. Veteran Labour MP Diane Abbott addressed the counter-rally, accusing Robinson of spreading “dangerous lies” about asylum seekers.
The demonstrations came amid surging anti-immigration sentiment in Britain, with Nigel Farage’s Reform UK party gaining ground in polls and anti-migrant protests targeting hotels housing asylum seekers.
Robinson, 42, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has long pushed anti-Muslim and anti-migrant rhetoric alongside claims of government-led censorship. “Every day you’re stunned — people being arrested just for speaking about immigration or gender,” said one attendee, Philip Dodge, a retired baker from Sheffield.
Many participants voiced anger at record migration levels, with placards reading “Stop the boats” and slamming Labour Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Some carried photos of American activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot dead earlier this week.
Notable figures expected to address the rally included French politician Eric Zemmour, Canadian psychologist Jordan Peterson, Germany’s Petr Bystron (AfD), and reports suggested former Trump adviser Steve Bannon would also speak.
The rally comes a year after anti-immigration riots erupted in UK cities, with Robinson accused of fuelling violence online. His influence, once thought to be in decline, has resurged since billionaire Elon Musk reinstated his X account in November 2023.
The government’s handling of free speech laws has also inflamed tensions. Critics point to the banning of Palestine Action, the arrests of pro-Palestinian protesters, and the recent detention of comedy writer Graham Linehan over alleged transphobic remarks. Police chief Mark Rowley has called for a rethink, saying officers should not be drawn into “toxic culture wars.”
Despite his criminal record, Robinson’s platform has grown significantly, with Saturday’s turnout highlighting the mainstreaming of far-right and anti-immigration politics in the UK.
About the author
Mr P reveals how he created hit single “I Can’t Look Away”
Nigerian music icon Mr. P, formerly of the legendary Psquare duo, has shared the creative journey behind his most anticipated single "I Can't Look Away," which has become a hit across streaming platforms since its release. The track is built on pulsating Afropop rhythms and playful lyricism, celebrating the theme of irresistible attraction and the feeling of being completely captivated by someone. Mr. P captured this feeling with effortless charm, infectious melodies, and a groove designed for movement that resonates with listeners. "I Can't Look Away" tells the story of a woman whose presence commands attention wherever she goes, so captivating that looking away becomes almost impossible. From the first verse to the final chorus, Mr. P leans into admiration, desire, and the exhilarating confusion that comes with being completely captivated by someone. The song was released on all streaming […]
Nigerian music’s impact on socio-political terrain
Beyond entertainment, Nigerian musicians have consistently used their platforms to question policies, highlight the struggles of ordinary people, and influence the country's socio-political discourse since the independence era. Nigerian music has evolved into a powerful vehicle for social commentary and political activism, with artists leveraging their melodies, rhythms and lyrics to address governance issues, corruption, economic hardships and social injustices that have shaped Nigeria's complex political landscape. The tradition of socially conscious music in Nigeria stretches back to the legendary Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, who famously declared music as "a weapon to inspire change for a better future" and used his art to challenge political oppression and advocate for social reform. Fela's influence on Nigerian music as a tool for political activism remains unmistakable and continues to inspire modern artists. Contemporary Nigerian musicians continue this legacy, with artists like Lagbaja, Made Kuti […]
“Don’t be daft” – Mofe Duncan faults Daddy Freeze’s remarks on Alex Ekubo’s service of songs
Actor Mofe Duncan has come out strongly to criticize Daddy Freeze's inappropriate comments about the late actor Alexx Ekubo's Service of Songs, telling the media personality to "not be daft" and reminding him that the event was not meant for celebration. Daddy Freeze, who attended the service while wearing black despite the white dress code specified in the invitation, faces backlash for his attire and his remarks about why he didn't see any reason to celebrate at the event. The media personality, Ifedayo Olarinde, better known as Daddy Freeze, apologized for wearing black to the Service of Songs of late actor Alexx Ekubo, explaining that it was not intentional as he received an invitation card with a code he scanned before attending. He claimed he was unaware of the dress code because the information was placed in a corner of […]
Balogun dedicates World Cup goal to Alex Iwobi
United States striker Folarin Balogun has revealed that his eye-catching celebration after scoring against Paraguay at the 2026 FIFA World Cup was a heartfelt tribute to Nigerian midfielder Alex Iwobi, a player he credits with helping him during a crucial stage of his development. After scoring his brace in the USA's commanding 4-1 victory over Paraguay in their opening Group D clash, Balogun lifted his jersey to reveal a shirt carrying the message "Thank you 17", leaving supporters and observers wondering about the meaning behind the gesture. Balogun later provided the answer, explaining that the celebration was dedicated to Iwobi, who has worn the number 17 throughout much of his professional career. The revelation transformed what appeared to be a simple goal celebration into a personal message of gratitude from one footballer to another. Balogun explained that his connection to […]
Full list: All 2026 World Cup Player of the Match winners so far
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has already produced several outstanding Player of the Match award winners, with Michelob Ultra Superior recognizing the standout performers from each game. The Player of the Match award highlights players who have delivered exceptional performances in individual matches, with winners from every game at the tournament officially recorded. Julien Quinones of Mexico, wearing number 16, was featured as one of the Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match winners, posing with the award after his performance. According to available information, the award has been distributed consistently throughout the tournament since the opening match, with fans able to find out who was named Player of the Match from every game at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match award is part of FIFA's official recognition system for outstanding tournament performers, […]
Iran says draft US deal includes oil sanctions waiver, nuclear limits and asset release
Iran has revealed that a proposed memorandum of understanding with the United States includes a waiver of oil sanctions, limits on Iran's nuclear programme, and the release of billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets. A senior Iranian source told Reuters on Friday that the draft deal would waive sanctions on Iran's oil exports, unfreeze billions of dollars of its funds, and impose restrictions on Iran's nuclear programme. The agreement also includes a commitment from Iran to never develop nuclear weapons. According to the source, the United States would lift its blockade on Iranian ports and issue targeted sanctions waivers to facilitate unrestricted Iranian oil sales during the negotiation period. The US proposal includes a temporary waiver of oil sanctions effective until a final agreement is reached, rather than Iran's demand for permanent lifting of all sanctions. The draft MOU […]
Related
Iran says draft US deal includes oil sanctions waiver, nuclear limits and asset release
Iran has revealed that a proposed memorandum of understanding with the United States includes a waiver of oil sanctions, limits on Iran's nuclear programme, and the release of billions of dollars in frozen Iranian assets. A senior Iranian source told Reuters on Friday that the draft deal would waive sanctions on Iran's oil exports, unfreeze billions of dollars of its funds, and impose restrictions on Iran's nuclear programme. The agreement also includes a commitment from Iran to never develop nuclear weapons. According to the source, the United States would lift its blockade on Iranian ports and issue targeted sanctions waivers to facilitate unrestricted Iranian oil sales during the negotiation period. The US proposal includes a temporary waiver of oil sanctions effective until a final agreement is reached, rather than Iran's demand for permanent lifting of all sanctions. The draft MOU […]
US and Iran inch closer to deal, but timing remains unclear
The United States and Iran have agreed on the wording of a draft peace deal to end their war, but the exact timing of when the agreement will be finalised remains unclear. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has been mediating the talks, announced that a final agreed-upon text of the peace deal has been reached between the United States and Iran, with subsequent actions to be determined by mediators. Pakistan, which has taken a proactive role in mediation, is coordinating with the involved nations on the next steps forward. According to three regional officials, the anticipated agreement is expected to facilitate the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, gradually lift sanctions on Iran, and allow the release of Iranian assets that have been frozen. A senior U.S. official revealed that pivotal elements of the emerging agreement involve the removal […]
UK Boards Russian Shadow Fleet Oil Tanker
British forces have intercepted and boarded a sanctioned oil tanker believed to be part of Russia’s so-called shadow fleet during a major operation in the English Channel, Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced on Sunday. The operation, which lasted approximately six hours, involved Royal Marine Commandos, specialist officers from the National Crime Agency (NCA), and support from the Royal Air Force. It marked the first time UK authorities have boarded a sanctioned vessel linked to Russia while transiting through British waters. According to the Ministry of Defence (MoD), the tanker, identified as Smyrtos, has been detained and will remain under close monitoring off England’s southern coast while investigations continue. Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the mission as a significant step in efforts to enforce sanctions against Russia. “This successful operation delivers another blow to Russia and sends a clear message to […]
US and Iran Move Closer to Major Agreement
The United States and Iran appear to be moving closer to a major agreement aimed at easing months of military tensions between the two countries. President Donald Trump announced that a formal deal could be signed on Sunday, although Iranian officials have expressed caution regarding the timeline. In a message shared on social media, Trump stated that the agreement was expected to be finalized soon. He also said that the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important shipping routes for oil and natural gas, would be reopened to all maritime traffic immediately after the deal takes effect. Pakistan, which has played a mediation role in the negotiations, also expressed optimism about the progress made. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said a final agreement could be concluded within 24 hours and noted that preparations were underway for an electronic signing […]
US Iran peace deal to be signed Sunday as Hormuz reopens
US President Donald Trump has announced that a deal between the United States and Iran is set to be finalized on Sunday, and that the Strait of Hormuz will reopen right after the agreement is signed. Pakistan, which has been mediating the talks, said a final agreed-upon text of a US-Iran peace deal has been reached, with only next steps needing clarification. The deal is expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, extend the current ceasefire, and begin negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme. Under the terms of the proposed deal, the Strait of Hormuz would reopen to shipping, returning to the situation that existed before the US and Israel launched their recent military action against Iran. The ceasefire is expected to continue for a further 60 days, with conflict ending across multiple fronts including Lebanon. The proposed memorandum of understanding […]
US and Iran to sign peace deal Sunday as Strait of Hormuz opens
The United States and Iran are close to signing a landmark peace memorandum that could mark a major breakthrough in relations between the two nations. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who has been mediating the talks, announced that a final agreed-upon text of the peace deal has been reached, with only the next steps needing clarification. The deal is expected to be signed on Sunday, June 14, 2026, with Geneva emerging as the most likely venue for the signing. US President Donald Trump has said that a deal between the United States and Iran is scheduled to be signed tomorrow, and that immediately after the agreement is signed, the Strait of Hormuz will be "open to all." The deal is expected to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, extend the current ceasefire, and begin negotiations on Iran's nuclear programme. Under the […]