Reform UK’s @ReformUKSam Journet has resigned from the @Essex_CC cabinet after just 4 months in the role. There’s clearly more to this than he just “can’t cope with the workload” (it was his decision to stand for both Basildon and Essex seats). Let’s look at Journet’s year as a councillor: 2025 He filmed a disabled man and made allegations about his behaviour, leading to calls for an apology and training. He was arrested on suspicion of stalking, harassment and a public order offence. He faced complaints from council staff about intimidation, disruption and entering staff-only areas. 2026 Former Reform colleague Sarah Shields accused him of prolonged bullying and derogatory remarks about her dyslexia. He received complaints about filming council staff and residents using camera-enabled glasses. He pledged to donate his councillor allowance. There’s no evidence he has. Residents launched a petition questioning his suitability to serve as Mayor of Basildon. Genesis Jewellery Ltd was compulsorily struck off following overdue filing requirements. He faces questions over missing company accounts, discrepancies in declarations of interests and a unsatisfied county court judgment. So what’s this really about?