It has been a tough week for Deputy President William Ruto who finds himself in an unfamiliar political territory since coming to office as Kenya's Deputy President.
Forced to endure never-ending political blows from politicians allied to President Uhuru Kenyatta and ODM leader Raila Odinga for the better part of last week, which has now been extended to this week, this could be the most challenging period of Dr Ruto's life in politics.
Though he has had tough political days before since he was elected Eldoret North MP in 1997, the DP's current situation could be his biggest test yet in the murky world of politics.
As he was sworn alongside President Kenyatta in 2017 after their contentious re-election that secured them another term at the heart of the country's leadership, perhaps this is not what the DP expected two years later.
Amid calls by his critics to resign as the anti-Ruto gang intensifies their attacks on him, the DP could be forced to make bold decision to could give him political lifeline. If not, he will perish politically, never to recover again.
This is the DP who is seemingly operating on borrowed time in his government. How can this be explained?
Dr. Ruto has set his eyes on the presidency. But his critics led by former Gatanga MP David Murathe feel that he is not fit for the job. Others have dared him to resign if he is not happy in Jubilee government.
Only a bold and tough man can weather this storm. And Dr Ruto could be such a tough and bold individual. His political career has always been full of ups and downs but he managed to overcome the treachery and emerge even stronger.
Whatever happens next, the DP is enduring one of his worst political nightmares for the 23 years he has been in active politics. As to whether he will survive is another story.
#hivisasaoriginal