UK leaders slam Musk’s interference in public affairs

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has accused billionaire businessman Elon Musk of fuelling division following public reactions to the murder of Henry Nowak.

The controversy follows the release of police bodycam footage showing officers handcuffing the 18-year-old as he lay fatally wounded after being stabbed by Vickrum Digwa. The footage sparked outrage and led to protests in Southampton, with questions raised about the actions of police officers at the scene.

Speaking during a visit to York, Starmer criticised attempts to use the case to deepen political and social divisions, saying Britain should respond to tragedies with calm and restraint. He pointed to appeals from Nowak’s family, who have repeatedly urged the public not to use the teenager’s death to promote hatred or unrest.

Musk had earlier used his social media platform to criticise the police response and question media coverage of the incident, comments that attracted significant attention online.

The debate has also drawn in opposition politicians. Kemi Badenoch met with Nowak’s family and said trust in policing must be rebuilt, while Ed Davey accused Musk of interfering in British public affairs.

Meanwhile, the family of Henry Nowak has continued to call for unity. Following the sentencing of Digwa, Henry’s father urged the public not to allow his son’s death to become a source of further division, saying the family’s priority is to see lessons learned that will improve public safety.

The case has also renewed debate over policing practices, with investigations underway into the conduct of officers at the scene and broader police guidance relating to race and operational decision-making.

Starmer said any necessary reforms should be pursued through proper investigations and accountability processes, while urging political leaders to respect the wishes of the victim’s family and avoid rhetoric that could inflame tensions.

Source: BBC