Six political parties have folded to join President William Ruto's UDA.
Previously, the parties were affiliated with the Kenya Kwanza Alliance.
The parties are, Umoja na Maendeleo whose leader is former Embu Governor Martin Wambora, Chama Cha Kazi (Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria), Chama Cha Mashinani (Isaac Ruto), Economic Freedom Party and Economic Party.
Speaking during a press conference at the party headquarters in Nairobi on Tuesday, March 14, UDA Secretary-General Cleophas Malala said the new parties will first go through the Registrar of Political Parties to formalise their engagement with UDA before they can join the party.
"UDA Party will continue reaching out to more parties to join us as we help President William Ruto focus on the country's development agenda. As for the new parties that have joined us, they will now be able to participate in our future grassroots elections," said Malala.
The defections come at a time when Azimio leader Raila Odinga is firing up his bases in readiness for mass action in Nairobi on March 20.
Raila was in Migori County on Friday before heading to Narok on Saturday, where he said he would unveil a list of companies to be boycotted.
"There are some companies that are being used badly. I will soon tell you to leave the services from that company and products. All that is coming," he said.
The opposition demos are slowly picking pace ahead of the March 20 climax. Azimio supporters in various counties have taken to the streets to protest the high cost of living.
Raila on Thursday last week declared the start of mass action against the Kenya Kwanza government, which he termed "illegitimate".
"Take note that on March 20, 2023, we have a date with destiny in Nairobi. On that day our supporters throughout the country shall stage a massive procession in Nairobi for a legitimate and inclusive government. Save the date," Raila said.
