Ben Habib is a renowned British businessman and politician known for his contributions to both corporate success and political discourse. Born on June 7, 1965, in Karachi, Pakistan, Habib has made a significant impact in business and politics, especially through his advocacy for Brexit and his dedication to UK sovereignty.
Early Life and Education
Ben Habib’s multicultural background laid the foundation for his diverse career. His father was from Pakistani Punjab, while his mother was English. At 14, Habib moved to the UK and attended Rugby School, where he later became president of its alumni association. In 1984, he enrolled at Robinson College, Cambridge, to study natural sciences, an academic path that prepared him for a dynamic career.
Business Success and Net Income
Habib began his professional journey in the financial sector. He joined Lehman Brothers in 1987 as a corporate finance analyst. Two years later, he became the finance director at PWS Holdings, an insurance brokerage. By 1994, Habib ventured into the property market, becoming managing director of JKL Property.
In 2000, he founded First Property Group plc, a commercial property investment and fund management company. Under his leadership as CEO, the company expanded its operations across the UK, Poland, and Romania, becoming a key player in the European property sector.
Habib’s business acumen and entrepreneurial success have earned him a substantial net income. His reported earnings as of his tenure in the European Parliament amounted to €960,000 annually from his leadership role at First Property Group. This wealth established him as one of the wealthiest Members of the European Parliament.
Entry into Politics
Initially a supporter of the Conservative Party, Ben Habib became increasingly vocal during the 2016 Brexit referendum. His belief in the economic and social benefits of Brexit motivated him to join the Brexit Party.
In 2019, Habib ran as the lead candidate for the Brexit Party in London during the European parliamentary elections. He secured a seat as a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) and held the position until the UK formally exited the European Union in January 2020. During this period, he served on the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs and worked on fostering relations with South Asian countries.
Leadership Role in Reform UK
In 2023, Ben Habib became co-deputy leader of Reform UK, formerly the Brexit Party. As a key figure, he served as the spokesperson for Brexit and the Union. In 2024, he contested the Wellingborough by-election, gaining 13% of the vote, and later secured 21.5% in the general election for the same constituency.
However, internal changes in the party led to Habib stepping down from his leadership position. In November 2024, he resigned from Reform UK, citing policy disagreements and concerns about the party’s direction under its leadership.
Advocacy Against the Northern Ireland Protocol
Despite initially supporting the Brexit withdrawal agreement, Ben Habib later criticized the Northern Ireland Protocol, arguing it undermined UK sovereignty. In February 2021, he joined other political figures in challenging the protocol through a judicial review. While the court acknowledged its conflict with the Acts of Union 1800, it ruled in favor of the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2020, stating it superseded previous legislation.
Recent Views and Statements
Ben Habib remains an influential voice in British politics. He has warned that the UK must adopt reformative policies to retain its competitive edge in a global market. He advocates for economic and trade policies that prevent the outflow of wealth and talent.
Habib’s departure from Reform UK was rooted in broader concerns about policy direction rather than personal disagreements, reflecting his commitment to principles over political convenience.
Conclusion
Ben Habib’s journey from a successful businessman to a prominent political figure highlights his dedication to the UK’s sovereignty and prosperity. His advocacy for Brexit, economic reforms, and trade policies continues to shape national discussions. With a legacy spanning both business and politics, Habib stands out as a key figure in modern British history.
