Summary: Nadhim Zahawi has announced he is joining Reform UK, delivering a blunt diagnosis of a “broken” Britain and backing Nigel Farage as the leader he believes can fix a country facing stagnation, crime and illegal migration.
“We came with nothing but hope”… Zahawi’s personal case for Reform
In his announcement video, Nadhim Zahawi rooted his decision in his own journey to Britain, presenting Reform UK as a return to the values that once made the country successful.
“I was born in Baghdad… We came to these shores in 1979. I was 11 years old. We came with nothing other than hope and determination, but also knowing that this nation was the most civilised nation on earth.”
He argued that the Britain his family arrived in no longer exists in the same form.
“But my friends, today Britain’s broken, and I’m convinced that Britain needs reform.”
“Nothing works”: growth, crime and migration
Zahawi’s core argument was that the British state is failing across the board, economically and socially.
“Nothing works. There is no growth. There is crime on our streets and there is an avalanche of illegal migration.”
He described illegal migration as a crisis that would be treated far more seriously in other countries.
“In anywhere else in the world [it] would be a national emergency.”
Calling for emergency-style action
Drawing on his experience during the pandemic, Zahawi argued that Britain needs the same urgency and focus now.
“Nigel recognises it’s a national emergency, and I think in many ways we need to act in the same way as we did in delivering the vaccine programme.”
He referenced the period when he addressed the nation regularly, emphasising delivery over process.
“I literally had to go on almost nightly just to reassure the nation that we had the team, we had the focus, and that we will deliver.”
The announcement moment
Zahawi’s decision has been widely shared online following the release of the video.
“Last chance saloon”: backing Farage for No10
The most striking section of the speech was Zahawi’s endorsement of Nigel Farage as prime minister.
“I think Britain is drinking in the last chance saloon and it really does need Nigel Farage as prime minister.”
He contrasted Farage with politicians driven primarily by personal ambition.
“I’ve seen politicians come and go… some are motivated and driven by just getting to the seat of power.”
Why Zahawi says Farage is different
Zahawi said his support is based on observing Farage operate on the international stage.
“When he needs to push back, he pushes back. He listens to allies and works with them and has that gravitas and respect.”
He concluded by framing his move as a decision of national interest rather than party loyalty.
“We all have to at some stage look in the mirror and decide what’s best for our country… and that’s why I’ve decided that I’m joining Reform.”
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