The elevation of Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i to chair Cabinet Committee on implementation has had ripple effect on Governor John Nyagarama's succession.
While Dr Matiang'i had not declared interest before, his frequent tours to the region had irked political temperatures with lead contestants often taking jabs at him.
With politicians led by top contestants Timothy Bosire and Ben Momanyi often questioning Matiang'i's integrity, the political attacks have since faded.
At a press conference a fortnight ago, Borabu MP Ben Momanyi conceded that Matiang'i's exit from the local scene would allow him and competitors to go back to drawing board.
"I had prepared to face him. I had done it before but since his elevation, I haven't heard much of him. I will definitely change the strategy," he said.
ODM treasurer Timothy Bosire, who served as Kitutu Masaba MP in last parliament, at one time demanded to have Matiang'i relinquishing his seat over Ruaraka land saga.
"You have been mentioned adversely on the land, records from the ministry have implicated you. Why can't you just rssign? he asked.
But the race now seems to be shaping in favour of clans and financial muscle, with Mr Bosire and Momanyi involved yet again.
The Borabu MP comes from the majority Abagirango clan while Bosire comes from Bogetutu. There are equally stronger candidates from either clans.
But Matiang'i's exit is a relief to the two according to former Gesima ward MCA Kenneth Nyameino, who says Matiang'i's name could have changed the voting style.
"Matiang'i has a national record. He could have twisted voting style. His absence means that the candidates must go to the drawing board," he said in a phone call.
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