British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has accused Elon Musk of stirring division and interfering in the UK’s internal affairs by using the Henry Nowak murder case as a political issue.
Starmer stated:
“Musk has been interfering in our politics in recent days, attempting to create division. That is not who we are in Britain.”
The Prime Minister added:
“In Britain, we are reasonable and tolerant people. In a terrible case such as Henry’s, we respond calmly and with dignity, just as his family has done.”
Background of the Case
Eighteen-year-old university student Henry Nowak was fatally stabbed on December 3, 2025, in Southampton by 23-year-old Vickrum Digwa. Using a ceremonial religious knife, Digwa stabbed Nowak five times.
The attacker later claimed to police that Nowak had subjected him to a racist assault.
When officers arrived at the scene, they allegedly handcuffed the severely injured Henry Nowak despite his pleas of, “I’ve been stabbed, I can’t breathe.” Nowak died at the scene. Digwa was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment for murder.
Body-camera footage released after the incident sparked widespread outrage. Many critics accused the police of applying a “two-tier justice” system and showing indifference toward white victims.
Elon Musk’s Response
Elon Musk repeatedly highlighted the case on X, drawing significant public attention to it.
Among his comments and actions:
- He described the police officers’ decision to handcuff Nowak as “unacceptable.”
- He announced that he would provide financial support for legal action against the police on behalf of the family.
- Comparing the case to that of George Floyd, Musk wrote: “Both men said ‘I can’t breathe,’ but only one prompted the world to rise up.”
- He argued that there is “systematic discrimination against white people” in Britain.
Musk’s posts, combined with reactions from figures such as Nigel Farage and Tommy Robinson, intensified the debate across the country. Protests subsequently broke out in Southampton, with some demonstrations leading to clashes between protesters and police.