VIDEO: Hundreds Gather in Glasgow City Centre to Oppose ‘Mass Deportation’ Rally

Tensions ran high in Glasgow city centre on Saturday as hundreds of demonstrators gathered to protest against a controversial rally organised by the UK Independence Party (UKIP), which called for mass deportations as part of what the party has dubbed its “mass deportation tour” across the UK.

The rally, led by UKIP’s newly appointed leader Nick Tenconi, drew a crowd of roughly 150 supporters near the AC Hotel and City Chambers on George Street.

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Participants held placards with slogans such as “Secure Our Borders” and “Being White Is Not a Hate Crime,” while singing patriotic songs like Rule Britannia and chanting “Send them home”—a message critics say promotes xenophobia and division.

The gathering was quickly met by a larger group of counter-protesters—many of whom labelled themselves anti-racist activists and local residents—who turned out in force to oppose the march. They condemned UKIP’s rhetoric as inflammatory and dangerous, especially in a city as diverse and multicultural as Glasgow.

UKIP had previously announced its intention to hold rallies in major cities as part of its latest campaign to tighten immigration laws and promote what it describes as the reassertion of British identity. However, critics argue the party’s message is veiled in racial and anti-immigrant undertones.

Local officials and community leaders voiced concern about the impact such events could have on public safety and social cohesion. “Glasgow is a city built on immigration, inclusion, and solidarity,” said one city councillor. “There is no place here for hate or division.”

While the rally remained largely peaceful, a visible police presence ensured that tensions between the opposing groups did not escalate into violence. Authorities confirmed no major incidents but said they remained vigilant amid rising concerns over political extremism.

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