Deputy President William Ruto suffered a major blow on Sunday after ex-Bomet Governor Isaac Ruto decamped from his team.
Mr Ruto has been leaning towards the DP but on Sunday, he announced a new political path.
The vocal and shrewd politician said Rift Valley votes do not belong to anyone.
Speaking after he hosted leaders who are known to be anti-DP Ruto crusaders, Ruto said he is free to lead his own political path.
"Rift Valley does not belong to an individual," he said.
The DP has been losing key leaders in his Rift Valley backyard as the journey to 2022 heats up.
Recently, Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Alex Tolgos decamped team TangaTanga for Gideon Moi's camp.
He accused certain leaders close to the DP of spoiling for him.
"I do not like the way members of the Tanga Tanga team are doing their things. It should be known that I will never be part of that team. I like the way Gideon Moi is doing his business. He does not insult anyone and will respect you for who you are. He is just like me,” Tolgos said.