Five Years After Amess Murder, UK Politicians Face Escalating Threats
Katie Amess, daughter of murdered MP Sir David Amess, warned that politicians remain at high risk five years after her father's death in 2021. She criticized the lack of change despite increased threats, including the recent death of former MP Ann Widdecombe. A government review led by Sir Robert Buckland is underway to improve safety, while Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch confirmed she received threats from a man also targeting her family. Other figures, including Reform UK's Richard Tice, acknowledged rising dangers but argued for balancing accessibility with protection.
Key points
- Katie Amess stated that the murder of her father, Sir David Amess, in October 2021 was not an isolated incident and that threats against MPs have increased.
- A government review commissioned in August 2026, led by former justice secretary Sir Robert Buckland, aims to report on safety improvements within six months.
- The death of former Conservative MP Ann Widdecombe in July 2026 highlighted ongoing risks, with her killer also charged with preparing terror acts against Nigel Farage.
- Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch confirmed that a man who pleaded guilty to sending her threatening messages also targeted her family; he faces sentencing on October 29, 2026.
- Katie Amess advocated for a public inquiry to ensure transparency, while her father’s killer, Ali Harbi Ali, had his counter-terror case closed prematurely in 2016, a finding confirmed by a 2025 review.
Background
Sir David Amess was stabbed to death during a constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, in October 2021. His case is part of a broader pattern of violence against UK politicians, including the 2016 murder of Labour MP Jo Cox. A 2025 review found that the counter-terror program 'Prevent' closed the case of Amess's killer too early due to problematic assessments. The current government review seeks to address these systemic failures to prevent future tragedies.
Why it matters
The escalating threats against politicians, including recent incidents involving Ann Widdecombe and Kemi Badenoch, highlight critical gaps in security protocols and counter-terror measures. The ongoing review and calls for a public inquiry aim to address these vulnerabilities, ensuring that democratic participation remains safe for both politicians and the public.
What to watch
The government review led by Sir Robert Buckland is expected to report within six months, potentially leading to new safety recommendations. Kemi Badenoch’s accuser will be sentenced on October 29, 2026. Katie Amess continues to campaign for a public inquiry to ensure full transparency and accountability regarding the safety of politicians.
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on BBC