On May 29, 2022, Deputy President William Ruto suffered a significant blow when Kipruto Kirwa, the deputy chairman of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), defected to Raila Odinga's Azimio La Umoja One Kenya Coalition.
This move marks the second high-profile defection from UDA in less than two months, following former South Mugirango MP Omingo Magara's departure in April 2022.
Mr. Kirwa, a former Agriculture Minister, was received by Mr. Odinga at a political rally in Sirisia, Bungoma County, accompanied by former Prime Minister Raila Odinga's running mate Martha Karua.
Announcing his resignation as deputy chairman of UDA, Mr. Kirwa stated that the appointment of Mathira MP Rigathi Gachagua as DP Ruto's running mate was a clear indication that the Kenya Kwanza Alliance was not promoting democracy but stifling it.
"Two weeks ago, my side appointed the person who was going to be running mate of my brother, that was the clearest indication that there is no democracy," Mr. Kirwa said in a statement.
Ms. Karua described Mr. Kirwa as a dedicated leader who has always championed the well-being of Kenyans.
Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa welcomed Mr. Kirwa's decision, stating that it was a clear indication that Azimio La Umoja was winning the August 9 polls.
