He may be a heartbeat away from becoming the President of Kenya but Deputy President's march to State House may not be a walk in the park.
Just like any other region in Kenya, Dr. Ruto's troubles in the Coast region may be far from over. Not even the 'crossing over' of controversial Malindi MP Aisha Jumwa from ODM leader Raila Odinga's camp to join his political bandwagon, will solve his many challenges to swing the region in his favour.
A few months ago, nearly all Coast politicians had declared that they will support the DP's presidential bid in the next general election. Today, things seem to have changed very fast.
From Kilifi North lawmaker Owen Baya to his Kisauni counterpart Ali Mbogo, the politicians have taken a low profile and have seemingly drifted away from Ruto.
Taita Taveta Governor Granton Samboja who became a new Ruto disciple is slowly moving to the Raila Odinga camp. In Kwale, Governor Salim Mvuvrya has taken a low profile.
Former Mombasa Senator Hassan Omar is not an exception. He is missing in action and has literally disengaged with the DP. With this turn of events, only Jumwa is the face of Dr. Ruto in the region.
Therefore, what next for the DP in the region? Can Jumwa single-handedly deliver the region to him to boost his 2022 presidential race chances?
Whatever he decides, Dr. Ruto should rethink his political strategy to finally win the support of the region that has loyally supported Raila since 2007.