After making it clear that he will not support anybody in the 2022 presidential contest, Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho's statement will no doubt have a ripple effect on ODM Leader Raila Odinga's future political ambitions.
To compound Raila's troubles at the Coast, Kilifi Governor Amason Kingi has been operating 'on his own' with his future in ODM remaining a matter of debate.
On Saturday, the duo vowed to work together for the sake of Coast unity. So where does this leave Raila? What are his options going to 2022?
Being a political genius, Raila will have to go back to the drawing board and identify able men and women to fit into the shoes of 'departing' Joho and Kingi.
Mvita MP Abdulswamad Sharrif Nassir can be the right man to become Raila's new point man in the Coastal region. Being a heavyweight in his own rights, the son of former powerful Cabinet Minister Sharrif Nassir, who harbours gubernatorial ambitions, can prove to be a game-changer in Mombasa and Coast politics at large.
With a promise to back him in his quest for the governorship, Raila's choice of Nassir may see Joho's influence watered down.
Another Raila option is former Mombasa Senator Hassan Omar. Though he is now in the political cold, the former Wiper Secretary-General can make the much-needed impact in 2022.
Whatever happens, before the next election remains to be seen. But for Raila, he must start shopping for new point-men should Joho and Kingi exit the ODM bandwagon.