In a seismic shift for British politics, former Conservative Chancellor Nadhim Zahawi has crossed the floor to join Reform UK. The high-profile defection was announced at a Westminster press conference on Monday, 12 January 2026.
A Major Defection Amid Surging Polls
The move represents the most significant political switchover since the 2024 General Election, placing Zahawi alongside other recent Tory converts like Nadine Dorries and Danny Kruger. It coincides with fresh national polling data that shows Reform UK solidifying its position as the UK's leading political force.
The latest City AM/Freshwater Strategy survey, conducted between 9-11 January 2026, places Nigel Farage's party on 33% of the voter share. This marks a two-point increase since December. Both the Labour and Conservative parties now trail far behind, tied on just 19% each.
The poll of 1,250 eligible voters also revealed a shake-up among smaller parties, with the Greens overtaking the Liberal Democrats (12% and 11% respectively).
Zahawi's Stinging Critique and Pledge
During the press conference, Zahawi delivered a stark assessment of the country's state, drawing a comparison to his birthplace, Iraq. He framed the UK as being in a "dark and dangerous chapter," citing voter concerns over the cost of living, immigration, and health and social care.
"To anyone trying to get a doctor’s appointment... to anyone just trying to earn a living and not get crushed into the dirt by ever-growing taxes – even if you don’t yet realise that Britain needs Reform, you know in your heart of hearts that our wonderful country is sick," he stated.
While defending some past Conservative economic and welfare policies, Zahawi positioned himself as a new "footsoldier" for Reform, pledging to campaign vigorously. He praised Farage as a leader who would "deliver for this nation," a stark contrast to tweets from over a decade ago where he called the Reform leader "racist," which have since been deleted.
Political Fallout and Reaction
The defection has ignited a fierce political row. A Conservative Party spokesman launched a scathing attack, suggesting Reform was becoming "the party of has-been politicians looking for their next gravy train." They highlighted Zahawi's past criticism of Farage as evidence of a lack of principle.
Zahawi's move underscores the profound realignment occurring within the UK's political landscape. With Reform's polling lead extending and a former senior Cabinet minister now in its ranks, the pressure on both the Conservative and Labour parties intensifies as they struggle to regain voter trust.
