Voting underway in Farage by-election battle with bin-wearing comedian

Voting is underway in the British constituency of Clacton for a by-election that could reignite scrutiny over Reform UK leader Nigel Farage's finances. Farage dramatically quit as a Member of Parliament last month and declared he would contest the by-election, framing it as a "people versus the establishment" contest.

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people versus the establishment

His decision to stand down was partly driven by a 5 million pound donation from a Thailand-based crypto billionaire, Christopher Harborne. The UK Parliament's standards watchdog was investigating the undeclared donation, but the probe paused when Farage resigned. If he wins the Clacton seat, the investigation is set to restart, potentially triggering another by-election.

Farage has insisted the money was a personal gift used for security and predated his election. He described the investigation as an "establishment hit job" and a media-driven "witch hunt." However, newly elected politicians are required to declare gifts over 300 pounds related to political activities received in the previous year.

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establishment hit job

None of the UK's major parties fielded candidates, dismissing Farage's move as a stunt. He faces a diverse group of independent candidates, including the comedian known as Count Binface, who has emerged as a notable rival. Polls close Thursday evening, with results expected Friday morning. While Farage is widely expected to win, the outcome is unlikely to fully resolve questions surrounding the substantial donation.

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witch hunt