Nadhim Zahawi, the former Conservative MP who lost his seat in 2024, has defected to Reform UK, becoming the highest-profile figure yet to join Nigel Farage's party. At a press conference in London, Zahawi declared that Britain was 'on its last legs' and that he had more to offer, despite widespread skepticism about his motives.
Zahawi's political career has been marked by controversy. He was sacked as Conservative Party chairman after failing to disclose a tax investigation that resulted in a £5m settlement, including a 30% fine. He also faced criticism for claiming parliamentary expenses for heating his stables. His loyalty has been questioned: appointed chancellor by Boris Johnson in 2022, he called for Johnson to resign within 48 hours, later backed Liz Truss, then returned to Johnson, before switching to Rishi Sunak.
Farage welcomed Zahawi, dismissing concerns that Reform is becoming a 'convalescent home' for disgraced Tories. He noted that defections help 'inflict pain' on the Conservatives and provide momentum. Zahawi, who reportedly sought a peerage from Kemi Badenoch weeks ago, insisted his departure was unrelated to that rejection. He claimed he had let his Tory membership lapse in December and then approached Farage.
Critics highlighted Zahawi's past criticism of Farage, including a 2015 tweet calling him divisive. Zahawi now argues that Reform offers the best path for the country, though many view his move as a self-serving attempt to revive his political career. The defection underscores the ongoing fragmentation of the Conservative Party, with Reform positioning itself as a home for disillusioned right-wing figures.
