Elgeyo Marakwet Senator Kipchumba Murkomen has not been heard contributing to matters of national politics lately.
The close confidant and ally of Deputy President and 2022 presidential hopeful William Ruto was, until recently, one of the most vocal leaders.
He was regularly speaking about Ruto's candidature, repeatedly endorsing it.
But the Senate Majority Leader is suddenly no longer in the media or press conferences outlining Ruto's achievements or bashing those perceived to be trying to stand on his way.
He is also no longer assuring Ruto's supporters that the Deputy Head of State is on his way to the top seat as has been his habit.
Similarly, he is no longer attacking opposed elements allegedly trying to block the DP from realizing his ambition.
Also known for his unending attacks on the opposition side, especially its leader Raila Odinga whom he calls 'tinga', he seems to have suddenly stopped.
This cannot, however, be attributed to the March 9 truce between Odinga and President Uhuru Kenyatta who is Ruto's boss as Murkomen has since rebuked the former premier numerous times after the handshake.
The last time he was in the limelight, he ended up making a controversial claim, accusing Raila of influencing the eviction of people from the Mau Forest water complex, landing him in trouble with Raila's brigade.
"Kuna watu wameingia kwa serikali juzi na sasa wameungana na wakora fulani kona fulani na sasa wanapanga eti tufanye hivi ndio tumzuie Ruto. (Some people who recently joined the government are now collaborating with some goons within the government to sabotage Ruto's bid)," he said.
The July attack also angered a section of his Jubilee Party colleagues who bashed him for disrespecting the president.
Could this be the reason for his silence? Has he realized that his remarks could spoil it for Ruto or is he simply no longer interested in the 2022 debate?
Similarly, could he have been told to watch his mouth to prevent a negative outcome in the race?
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