From Tory to Reform: Why Nadhim Zahawi defection is rocking British politics
Nadhim Zahawi, the former Conservative chancellor and vaccines minister. Image Credit: Victoria Jones/PA
Nadhim Zahawi, the former Conservative chancellor and vaccines minister, has defected to Reform UK, becoming the most senior ex-Tory figure yet to cross over to Nigel Farage’s party. The move has intensified debate about the future of the Conservative Party and fuelled claims that Reform UK is rapidly consolidating the political right.
Zahawi’s announcement, made at a high-profile press conference alongside Farage, came amid mounting criticism from Labour, the Liberal Democrats, and senior Conservatives, who described Reform as a refuge for “disgraced” or “has-been” politicians.
Failed Peerage Bid Before Defection
According to multiple Conservative sources cited by the Guardian, Zahawi attempted several times to secure a peerage from Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch’s team in late 2024. These requests were rejected, with Tory figures reportedly telling Zahawi he was “not suitable” for elevation following his resignation from Rishi Sunak’s cabinet over tax-related ethics breaches.
While Zahawi does not deny discussing a peerage, he claims he was given a signal that his case might be reconsidered in 2026. Tory insiders dispute this, arguing the refusal played a decisive role in his eventual defection.
Why Zahawi Says He Joined Reform UK
Explaining his decision, Zahawi said Britain had reached a “dark and dangerous moment” and required what he described as a “glorious revolution.” He criticised what he sees as an over-powerful civil service, entrenched quangos, and constitutional reforms dating back to the Tony Blair era.
Zahawi also cited restrictions on free speech, failures in migration policy, and legislation he described as “virtue-signalling” and economically damaging. He admitted that he and previous Conservative governments shared responsibility for what he called “constitutional vandalism.”
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Tax Scandal Continues to Shadow His Career
Zahawi’s political standing was severely damaged in January 2023 when he was sacked as Conservative Party chair by Rishi Sunak after an independent ethics investigation found he had breached ministerial rules over unpaid tax liabilities.
He later confirmed paying nearly £5 million to settle the matter. Zahawi has since maintained the issue stemmed from a failure to properly declare information, rather than deliberate wrongdoing, but the episode remains central to criticism of his credibility.
Political Backlash From All Sides
Reaction to Zahawi’s move was swift and severe. Labour chair Anna Turley branded him a “discredited and disgraced politician,” while Liberal Democrats described Reform UK as a “retirement home for disgraced former Conservative ministers.”
The Conservatives were equally scathing, accusing Reform of becoming a party for politicians “looking for their next gravy train.” Badenoch’s allies noted that Zahawi had previously said he would be frightened to live in a country run by Farage, remarks now being widely recirculated.
What Zahawi’s Move Signals for Reform UK
Zahawi is now one of more than 20 former Tory MPs to join Reform UK, reinforcing arguments that Farage’s party is absorbing the Conservatives’ right flank. Farage dismissed claims that Reform is simply “Conservatives 2.0,” but acknowledged that Zahawi’s experience strengthens the party’s credibility ahead of key elections.
Zahawi has not ruled out returning to Parliament or accepting a future peerage, raising further questions about his long-term ambitions within Reform.
FAQ
Why did Nadhim Zahawi leave the Conservative Party?
Zahawi said the UK faces a “dark and dangerous moment,” citing failures in governance, free speech concerns, and an over-powerful bureaucracy. Tory sources say his failed bid for a peerage also influenced the move.
Did Nadhim Zahawi ask for a peerage before defecting?
Yes. Conservative sources claim Zahawi made multiple requests for a peerage, which were rejected due to his resignation over tax issues.
Why was Zahawi sacked from the Conservative cabinet?
He was dismissed in 2023 after an ethics investigation found he breached ministerial rules by failing to properly disclose tax matters under HMRC investigation.
What role will Zahawi play in Reform UK?
No formal role has been announced, but his senior experience positions him as a potential leadership or economic figure within the party.
How many former Conservative MPs have joined Reform UK?
At least 20 former Tory MPs have defected to Reform UK, with Zahawi now the most senior among them.
Does Zahawi deny allegations of racism against Nigel Farage?
Zahawi said he would not share a platform with Farage if he believed the Reform leader held racist views, rejecting the allegations.
