The image shows Corey Edwards, a former adviser in the Conservative Party, with his right arm raised and a finger under his nose. Farage described the photo as “terrible” and said he did not approve of it, but confirmed Edwards would remain in the party.
Edwards claimed he was mimicking the character Basil Fawlty, with a statement also suggesting he was imitating Welsh goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey.
Edwards, who previously served as a special adviser to Conservative Welsh Secretary David TC Davies, was confirmed as the Reform Party’s lead candidate for Pen-y-bont Bro Morgannwg on Wednesday, making him likely to take a seat if the party wins in the Bridgend and Vale of Glamorgan constituency.
A Reform UK Wales spokesperson: “Corey Edwards has informed us that he is stepping down as a candidate for the Senedd election this May, citing issues with his mental health.
“We wish him well for the future and hope his privacy can be respected at this difficult time.”
The party will also be providing mental health support to Corey.
Nigel Farage, the leader of Reform, had come to Mr Edwards defence on Thursday, the day after the photos were published by the Nation.Cymru website.
But a day later, the party has now announced Mr Edwards has stood down as a candidate.
