On May 29, 2022, Kipruto Arap Kirwa, the vice chairman of the United Democratic Alliance (UDA), made a shocking announcement in Sirisia Market, Bungoma County. He had decided to leave the party and join the Azimio Coalition, a move that has been seen as a significant blow to Deputy President William Ruto's presidential bid.
Kirwa's decision to join the Azimio Coalition was influenced by Raila Odinga's announcement of Martha Karua as his running mate. He stated that he believed the Azimio camp would clinch victory and that he wanted to ensure Odinga obtained the 50+1 support threshold.
During a campaign rally in Sirisia Market, Kirwa officially announced his resignation from UDA and was welcomed into the Azimio Coalition by Odinga and Karua. Karua praised Kirwa's decision, stating that the Azimio la Umoja political fold was a movement with a leader of a proven track record.
“From today I Kipruto Arap Kirwa have resigned as UDA vice chairman and I have resigned because I have seen how democracy is going to be suppressed if we allow the other side,” Kirwa said.
