Starmer accuses Musk of trying to whip up division over Henry Nowak murder
BBC • • world
Key Points:
- Violent protests erupted in Southampton after bodycam footage showed police handcuffing 18-year-old Henry Nowak as he lay dying, following the murder conviction of Vickrum Digwa, who had claimed a racist attack.
- Political figures, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, called for calm and unity, emphasizing the family's plea to avoid division and hatred.
- Sir Keir accused Elon Musk of interfering in British politics by criticizing police treatment on social media and stressed the need for calm and leadership in response to the tragedy.
- The Independent Office for Police Conduct is investigating the officers' behavior, while the National Police Chiefs Council is reviewing race-related guidance, with calls for possible misconduct investigations.
- Reform UK leader Nigel Farage expressed anger over the case but faced criticism for his response, with MPs urging him to respect the family's request for calm and focus on justice and lessons to be learned.