defection
//dɪˈfɛkʃən//
Noun
defectionSingular
defectionsPlural
1
The act of abandoning a person, cause, or organization to which one previously owed allegiance, especially to join an opposing group.
The defection of several key members weakened the political party.
2
The desertion of one's country or political party in favor of another.
His defection from the ruling party shocked the political world.