Nigel Farage’s attempt to dodge scrutiny of his finances appears to have backfired spectacularly, as the standards watchdog reopened its investigation and MPs from across the spectrum condemned the unnecessary byelection.

The Reform UK leader declared victory in Clacton with an increased majority, claiming he had “stuck two fingers up at the entire political establishment.” But the triumph was short-lived as parliament’s standards commissioner immediately resumed its probe into whether he should have declared gifts received before the last general election, including a £5m personal gift from crypto billionaire Christopher Harborne and support from convicted fraudster George Cottrell.

Labour chair Bridget Phillipson said Farage now had “no hiding place,” while a Conservative spokesperson dubbed the byelection a “farce” and suggested he was only bragging about beating “a bloke with a bin on his head.” Farage, however, downplayed the allegations, claiming his only sin was not filling in a piece of paper, and insisted he had broken no laws.

The watchtower inquiry could result in a suspension of more than 10 days if the standards committee recommends it, which would trigger a second byelection requiring approval from over 10% of Clacton’s electorate - about 7,000 voters, more than those who voted for his main rival Count Binface.

Farage also faced criticism for skipping the Clacton count, citing police warnings of disruption, but police denied giving such advice. A flashmob protest was reportedly 15 minutes away from the venue. Even Reform supporter Tim Montgomerie criticized his absence, saying he should have been celebrating his win on every TV screen with his trademark smile.

Farage called the byelection in July, but all main parties declined to stand, leaving him against novelty candidates. Reports suggest he was advised that leaving parliament would end the investigation, but it only pauses and resumes upon re-election.

Labour noted at least 10 questions remain, including whether Harborne gave money to other Reform-linked figures. The investigation is expected to resume when parliament returns, but its conclusion date is uncertain.

Farage won with over 22,000 votes (63%) on a 44% turnout. Friends say he plans to return to campaigning for Reform, possibly eyeing an early general election.