Guest Writer Niwa Limbu examines the ongoing suspension of the KCL Conservative Association, arguing for its reinstatement as a matter of free speech and political representation, while looking ahead to the upcoming KCLSU elections as a pivotal moment for restoring intellectual diversity and student engagement.
In an academic environment celebrated for its diversity and free exchange of ideas, it is both puzzling and troubling that the KCL Conservative Association (KCLCA) has not been reinstated within the King’s College London Students’ Union (KCLSU). Conservative and right-wing students at King’s College London deserve a home to voice their perspectives in a manner that aligns with the fundamental principles of dialogue, mutual respect, and intellectual growth. The absence of this platform not only sidelines a significant portion of the student body but also undermines the broader ideals of freedom of expression and democratic representation on campus.
A New Cabinet, A Fresh Start
While it is imperative to respect the conventions and code of conduct set forth by the KCLSU, it is equally important to recognise that with each new leadership brings an opportunity for a fresh start. The current KCLCA cabinet should not be burdened by the controversies of its predecessors, such as the BUF Armband episode that triggered the investigation and subsequent suspension of the society. Just as governance in broader society allows for renewal and rehabilitation, so too should student organisations be allowed the chance to rebuild and thrive under fresh leadership. Whilst it is of course welcome that the KCLCA are expected to be reinstated in May, it should have happened in September at the beginning of the academic year.
To deprive the new KCLCA cabinet of this opportunity risks perpetuating a punitive culture rather than fostering a community of accountability and growth. It is worth considering the words of Benjamin Disraeli: “The palace is not safe when the cottage is not happy.” In this context, the broader KCLSU community cannot claim to be truly inclusive if conservative students are left without a platform.
The Role of Free Speech and Responsible Debate
The importance of free speech in student politics cannot be overstated. Universities are meant to be bastions of intellectual rigour, where challenging ideas and debating controversial topics are not just encouraged but essential to academic and personal growth. Without the ability to engage in open discourse, students are deprived of the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills, refine their arguments, and cultivate an understanding of differing perspectives.
However, the current climate in many universities, including King’s College London, suggests a growing hostility towards dissenting views. Charlotte Tredgett, an undergraduate philosophy student, has spoken out against cancel culture and the restrictive nature of debate in university classrooms. Charlotte described the shock she experienced upon starting her degree, expecting lively discussions but instead finding a reluctance among her peers to question prevailing ideologies on gender, capitalism, or colonialism.
A previous Roar op-ed by Comment Editor, Rayhan Hussain, on “The Ugly Truth of Student Politics” — aptly highlighted the stifling state of discourse on many university campuses. Without platforms like the KCLCA, conservative students are left without a structured and respectable avenue to express their views. This risks pushing legitimate conservative discourse to the fringes, where it may devolve into unproductive or even extreme narratives.
The rise of members of the Reform UK Party over the past few months has meant conservative students who have been unable to actively participate with the KCLCA this year have struggled to challenge Reform UK’s agenda and ideas effectively.
Reinstating the KCLCA would provide a forum for engaging with and challenging ideas constructively. It is essential for conservative students to have a space to counter rising extremism, whether from the far-right or far-left, and to address the growing influence of political movements such as Reform UK or having constructive criticisms of both the Zionist or Pro-Palestinian movements.
As Robert Gascoyne-Cecil, the 5th Marquess of Salisbury, once said, “There was never a greater need for true conservatism than there is today.” A strong, principled conservative voice at King’s would enrich the campus’ intellectual ecosystem and foster critical debate on pressing issues.
Conclusion
The upcoming KCLSU Presidential election represents a crucial moment for the student body to choose a leader who will champion freedom of speech and uphold the values of open dialogue. At a time when many universities are grappling with challenges to intellectual diversity, we need a strong candidate who understands the importance of providing platforms for all voices, including those that may diverge from the mainstream.
A true leader in this role would actively foster an environment where students can engage in robust, respectful debate without fear of censorship or marginalisation. By electing a president committed to these principles, the KCLSU can reaffirm its dedication to being a union that represents the interests of all its members and upholds the university’s legacy as a bastion of learning and free expression.
The absence of a President in the KCLSU this year has been a glaring issue, leaving a leadership vacuum that has only exacerbated existing concerns around communication and transparency. With no clear figurehead to drive engagement and accountability, the connection between the Union and student societies—including political groups—has been significantly weakened.
This has been particularly evident in the ongoing committee elections, where the lack of dialogue between KCLSU and student organisations has created confusion.
Looking ahead, the upcoming KCLSU presidential elections will serve as a crucial moment for conservative students who value proper representation and free speech. The right candidate must recognise the importance of platforming all student voices, including conservative perspectives, and ensuring that societies are given the autonomy and respect they deserve.
With a keen eye on the elections, it is essential that conservatives within KCL push for a leader who will rebuild communication, restore proper governance, and safeguard the integrity of student involvement within KCLSU.
The KCLSU must recognise that the reinstatement of the KCL Conservative Association is not merely about accommodating one political ideology; it is about affirming the principles of fairness, inclusion, and free expression. By providing a platform for conservative students to engage in respectful and reasoned debate, the KCLSU would not only strengthen its commitment to diversity but also ensure that all students feel represented and valued.
In the spirit of Disraeli and Salisbury, let us remember that a thriving academic community depends on the harmony of its constituent voices. It is time for the KCLSU to reinstate the KCLCA and reaffirm its dedication to the principles that make King’s College London a beacon of learning and intellectual freedom.
