Central London is alive with tension and fervour today as tens of thousands of demonstrators converge for the “Unite the Kingdom” rally, organized by far-right activist Tommy Robinson. Billed as the UK’s largest free speech festival, the event has drawn an estimated 110,000 participants waving Union Jacks and chanting slogans against immigration and censorship.
A simultaneous counter-protest by anti-racism campaigners, organized by Stand Up to Racism (SUTR), has mobilised around 5,000 activists, creating a stark divide in the heart of the capital.
With over 1,000 Metropolitan Police officers deployed – including reinforcements from other forces – authorities have erected barriers to maintain a “sterile area” between the groups, preventing clashes so far.
The rally, which kicked off near Waterloo Station around midday, is marching toward Whitehall for speeches, including one from Donald Trump’s former strategist Steve Bannon. Eyewitnesses describe streets “packed” with protesters from across the UK and beyond, brandishing flags from England, Scotland, Wales, and even international supporters from Poland, Australia, and New Zealand.
Aerial footage shows a sea of red, white, and blue, with chants of “We want our country back!” echoing through the city.
As of mid-afternoon, the event remains peaceful, though the atmosphere is charged.
Background: Tommy Robinson and the Rise of ‘Unite the Kingdom’
Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, is a prominent far-right figure and founder of the English Defence League (EDL). Known for his anti-Islam and anti-immigration stance, Robinson has faced multiple legal battles, including contempt of court charges, but maintains a large online following.
The “Unite the Kingdom” event is framed by organizers as a celebration of free speech and national identity, protesting what they call unchecked immigration policies that strain public services and erode British culture.
Robinson, speaking from the march, declared, “We are making history,” in a video shared widely on social media, emphasizing unity across the UK.
Supporters, including diverse ethnic groups, argue the rally addresses legitimate concerns about border control and cultural preservation.
Critics, however, label it a far-right gathering promoting division, with Reuters reporting it as an anti-immigration march expected to be one of Britain’s largest in decades.
The event follows a summer of heightened political tensions in the UK, including riots sparked by misinformation after a tragic stabbing in Southport. Robinson’s release from prison earlier this year has galvanized his base, leading to this high-profile demonstration.
On the Ground: March Details and Police Presence
The rally began assembling near Waterloo Bridge around 11 a.m., with crowds spilling onto Westminster Bridge by early afternoon.
Protesters, many donning patriotic attire, are heading south along Whitehall for a rally featuring international speakers.
Live streams and videos capture the scale: one clip shows “jaw-dropping” numbers marching in unison, with no reported arrests as of 2 p.m.
Meanwhile, the counter-protest – dubbed the “March Against Fascism” – is underway in a nearby area, with SUTR organizers emphasizing opposition to racism and far-right extremism.
Chants from anti-fascist groups have included provocative references to recent events, such as “Charlie’s in a box,” alluding to the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk earlier this week – a development that has added emotional fuel to today’s demonstrations.
The Metropolitan Police have borrowed 500 officers from forces in Leicestershire, Nottinghamshire, and Devon and Cornwall to bolster their numbers, creating a buffer zone to keep the groups apart.
Officials urge peaceful conduct, warning that troublemakers will face arrest.
So far, the deployment appears effective, with Sky News reporting the rally “kicking off” without incident.
Social media is ablaze with reactions. Supporters hail it as a “British awakening,” with one X user posting, “Give Em’ Hell Patriots,” alongside footage of the multinational flags. Organizers claim over one million attendees, though police estimates hover around 110,000.
International attention is high, with U.S. conservatives like those echoing Trump’s circle amplifying the event.
Critics, including anti-racism advocates, decry the rally as dangerous. The Guardian describes it as a far-right mobilization, with counter-protesters vowing to “stand up” against hate.
One X post highlights the irony of “anti-fascists” using aggressive chants, underscoring the polarized discourse.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s office has not yet commented, but the event is under close watch amid ongoing debates on immigration reform.
As the day progresses, all eyes are on whether the massive turnout will remain orderly or escalate into confrontation.
This rally marks a pivotal moment in UK politics, amplifying voices on both sides of a deeply divisive issue. Updates are ongoing as the march reaches Whitehall.
