Reform UK faces criticism for welcoming former Conservative ministers into its ranks, earning the label of a “retirement home” for disgraced ex-Tory MPs. Among the recent additions is Suella Braverman, a former Home Secretary, who joined the party, increasing the number of sitting MPs under Nigel Farage’s leadership to eight. This move follows Nadhim Zahawi, who previously compared Nigel Farage to Hitler’s chief propagandist, also switching to Reform earlier in January.
In a significant development, Robert Jenrick, a serving MP, announced his move to Reform UK after being sacked by Kemi Badeoch hours before for allegedly planning to defect. The party’s ranks have seen other prominent figures like Andrea Jenkyns, former Culture Secretary Nadine Dorries, and Lee Anderson, who now serves as a Reform MP in the Commons.
Former Home Secretary Suella Braverman’s decision to join Reform on January 26, 2026, did not surprise many due to her controversial statements on various issues. Her past remarks on homelessness, migrants, and other topics have garnered attention, making her defection less unexpected.
Robert Jenrick’s defection in January 2026 saw him criticizing the current Conservative government and expressing concerns over issues like illegal migration and national security. The move was preceded by his dismissal from the shadow Justice Secretary role by Kemi Badenoch for alleged plans to defect.
Nadhim Zahawi, a former Chancellor, also made headlines for his switch to Reform after being embroiled in tax affairs scandal that led to his removal from ministerial position. His departure from the Conservative party was marked by controversies during his parliamentary career.
The trend of defections to Reform UK also includes high-profile figures like Jonathan Gullis, Sir David Jones, Sir Jake Berry, and Anne Marie Morris, each citing disillusionment with the Tory party’s direction as a reason for their switch. The increasing number of ex-Tory members joining Reform reflects a broader shift in political allegiances.