“Get Over It”: New Conservative Senedd Leader Darren Millar Declares Unapologetic Christian Faith
In a bold debut as the new Conservative leader of the Welsh Senedd, Darren Millar MS has made waves by openly declaring his Christian faith, asserting that it’s an integral part of his identity and dismissing critics with the provocative statement: “People need to get over it.”
Millar, the Member for Clwyd West, ascended to the leadership role on December 5th following Andrew RT Davies’s resignation. Known for his active involvement in Christian initiatives, Millar is the CEO of the Pocket Book Testament League, a group dedicated to spreading the Bible’s message. He also serves as a trustee of the Evan Roberts Institute, which aims to preserve Welsh religious heritage and promote Christianity.
While Millar’s faith-driven leadership promises to champion freedom and personal responsibility, some of his affiliations have sparked controversy. The Evan Roberts Institute has ties to Singaporean Pentecostal minister Yang Tuck Yoong, who has previously made inflammatory remarks about homosexuality, calling it “an abomination.” Millar, however, distanced himself from Yoong in 2019, telling the BBC he had severed ties with the preacher.
Millar’s stance as a pro-life advocate also drew attention. While holding firm personal beliefs, he emphasized: “I believe in freedom of choice and personal responsibility. I do not like to impose my views on anybody else.”
Navigating a Divided Party
Millar’s unopposed leadership reflects his strong standing within the Welsh Conservatives, but the transition follows a period of turbulence under his predecessor. Andrew RT Davies faced criticism over a GB News article suggesting that “children should not be forced to eat halal meat in school,” which prompted accusations of Islamophobia.
Acknowledging his predecessor’s challenges, Millar struck a conciliatory tone, pledging to define his leadership by advocating for clear priorities: “I want to plough my own furrow… It is more important in politics to define yourself by what you are for rather than what you are against.”
A Conservative Vision for Wales
Under Millar’s leadership, the Welsh Conservatives are positioning themselves as advocates for freedom of choice, personal responsibility, home ownership, and the farming community, while remaining staunchly pro-devolution and pro-Wales.
Despite these aspirations, Millar’s open embrace of his faith and his unapologetic remarks are likely to attract both admiration and criticism, testing his ability to unite his party and appeal to a broader electorate.
As Millar settles into his role, one thing is certain: he’s not afraid to challenge convention or public perception. The question remains—how will his faith and leadership shape the Welsh Conservatives’ future in a rapidly evolving political landscape?
