London Mayor Sadiq Khan faced mounting criticism after the capital's New Year's Eve fireworks display, which celebrated ties with the European Union, left a bad taste in the mouths of some Brits.
The 135-metre-high London Eye was lit up in blue while its tubs turned yellow, with the giant Ferris wheel resembling the star-studded flag of the European Union.
Sadiq Khan called his fireworks display a "message of support" to EU citizens living in London.
"Our one million EU citizens are Londoners, they make a huge contribution, and no matter the outcome of Brexit — they will always be welcome", he said.
To the one million EU citizens who have made our city your home: you are Londoners, you make a huge contribution and you are welcome here. I'm proud that tonight we will welcome in the new year with a message of support to you. #LondonNYE #LondonIsOpen https://t.co/XctrgfXXaM
— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) 31 декабря 2018 г.
However, a host of Londoners rushed to Twitter to accuse their mayor of "politicising" the celebrations — with some are even calling for his resignation.
I cannot believe this event has been politicised. This man has no shame. Just resign.
— wayne campbell (@campbs177) 31 декабря 2018 г.
Thanks a lot Sadiq Khan you ruined the fireworks display by talking about Europe, need I remind you about Brexit. You have started of the new year by talking about relationships with the European Union. Well done. We need Boris Johnson back.
— Mitchell T Cannon (@MitchellTCanno1) 1 января 2019 г.
Another shameless attempt at using party politics on what is supposed to be a happy occasion
— droneguy (@shelbyguitars) 1 января 2019 г.
Politicising another innocent event that should be no different to anyone no matter who they are or where they are from! Shameful!!
— Mike Dyer (@Miked2372Mike) 31 декабря 2018 г.
Someone was stabbed down the road from me last night. How about sorting that stuff out instead of politicizing something that should be fun for everyone?How many times does it have to be said. Commenting on Brexit isn't your job.
— Peter Rockett (@rockettp) 31 декабря 2018 г.
The UK voted to leave the EU in June 2016 via a nationwide referendum, with 51.9 per cent voting in favour of pulling out of the bloc, while 48.1 per cent wanted to remain.
The withdrawal is scheduled for the end of March; the Article 50 deadline. The Remain sentiment dominated London, with nearly 60 percent of voters wanting Britain to stay in the European Union. Sadiq Khan, an outspoken Remainer himself, earlier called for a second referendum on Brexit.
"The government's abject failure — and the huge risk we face of a bad deal or a 'no deal' Brexit — means that giving people a fresh say is now the right — and only — approach left for our country," he said in September.
