Lord Rami Ranger, a Conservative donor previously suspended for allegations of bullying and inappropriate remarks, has sparked controversy by winning a £50,000 dinner bid with Kemi Badenoch at a recent party fundraising event. The move has raised eyebrows within the party, particularly among those who believe his return to prominence is unwarranted.
A Controversial Comeback
Rami Ranger’s successful bid at the lavish fundraising dinner held at the Peninsula hotel in London has reignited discussions about his conduct and the party’s willingness to reintegrate him. Having contributed over £1.5 million to the Conservatives since 2009, Ranger’s financial backing has been substantial, but his past actions have cast a long shadow.
In 2023, Ranger faced suspension after complaints regarding his bullying behaviour towards independent journalist Poonam Joshi, as well as inappropriate comments about the Pakistani community. He was ultimately readmitted to the party in November 2024, shortly before losing his CBE, a prestigious honour he described as devastating.
Fundraising Event Draws Criticism
The dinner, which attracted bids from numerous prominent donors, was part of a 1920s-themed gala that raised approximately £220,000 for the Conservative Party. Other auction items included lunches with prominent figures like Michael Gove and Jacob Rees-Mogg, all designed to entice financial contributions from the party’s backers. However, the acceptance of Ranger back into the fold has not been met with universal approval.
One party member expressed dismay at Ranger’s rehabilitation, suggesting it reflects a desperate need for funds within the party. “The rehabilitation of Rami Ranger just shows how desperate this Tory party is for money from anywhere,” they stated.
Allegations Resurface
Ranger’s past actions, including a series of vitriolic tweets directed at Joshi—where he accused her of being linked to domestic abuse and labelled her as “evil”—have resurfaced, leading to renewed scrutiny of his character. Following an investigation by the House of Lords, the commissioner for standards determined that he had abused his power but opted not to suspend him after he agreed to undergo social media training.
The journalist herself has condemned the party’s decision to reinstate Ranger, calling it “appalling and totally unethical.” Her criticisms echo broader concerns about how the Conservative Party handles issues of misconduct and accountability among its members.
Financial Contributions Amid Controversy
Despite the backlash, Ranger has continued to show his financial commitment to the party. Records from the Electoral Commission indicate that he donated £5,000 while under suspension, although he has not made subsequent contributions. His willingness to pay a hefty sum for a dinner with a leading Cabinet minister underscores the complexities surrounding financial influence in politics.
Why it Matters
Rami Ranger’s return to the Conservative Party spotlight illustrates the ongoing tension within the party regarding standards of conduct and the influence of money in politics. As the Tories navigate their internal challenges and public image, incidents like this highlight the delicate balance between financial support and ethical accountability. The implications of accepting such controversial figures back into the fold could resonate beyond party lines, shaping public perception and trust in political institutions.
