More than 100,000 people turned out on Saturday for the “Unite the Kingdom” rally in central London, marking what local media call the largest far-right demonstration in decades.
Organized by activist Stephen Yaxley-Lennon (also known as Tommy Robinson), the anti-immigration march saw thousands flood Whitehall, overwhelming the planned route and prompting a massive police response. Officers described the rally as “too big to fit into Whitehall.”
Authorities deployed over 1,600 officers, including 500 reinforcements from other police forces, to manage the crowds. Clashes broke out as some protesters veered off course, leading to projectiles—bottles, flares—and confrontations that left 26 officers injured, four seriously.
By the day’s end, police had arrested 25 people, signaling that more arrests may follow. “We are identifying those who were involved in the disorder, and they can expect robust police action,” said Assistant Commissioner Matt Twist.
'We want our country back, we want our free speech back on track,' said supporter Sandra Mitchell. On the other side, teacher Ben Hetchin held a counter-placard and argued that 'embracing newcomers makes us stronger.' The event underscored deep divisions in how Britain grapples with immigration.
The march also capped a tense summer in the UK. Last weekend alone, more than 1,000 migrants crossed the English Channel on small boats, pushing the total to over 30,000 so far this year. The government faces mounting pressure to address irregular immigration.
For young global citizens, tech professionals, activists, and travelers watching from afar, the London rally illustrates how migration debates can mobilize large crowds—and fuel both protest and solidarity movements in one of the world’s most diverse capitals.
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Over 100,000 turn up in far-right activist-led rally in central London
cgtn.com
