Oliver Donachie and Emma Faramarzi have formed the Independent Tories and will look to shift the balance of power in May’s local elections There will be a potentially very significant new factor in May’s local elections in Swindon – assuming they go ahead. The Independent Tories, a two-councillor group made up of former Conservatives Oliver Donachie and Emma Faramarzi, are aiming to be fielding candidates in every marginal ward. And if that happens then it s possible they could affect the Conservative vote – and potentially bring about a change in administration for Swindon Borough Council. De facto leader Coun Donachie said: “We are here to provide a credible alternative to people who feel the Conservative group led by David Renard is failing the people of Swindon but they do not wish to vote for the Labour party to do so.