The Building Bridges Initiative meeting in Kisii on Thursday exposed cracks within government, an indication of a looming battle in 2022.
Over 80 MPs from across the country, 14 governors and dozens of senators were present, in meeting that was organised by Nyanza leadership.
ODM leader Raila Odinga was the chief guest. He called for a referendum within the next six months, arguing that Kenya is ripe for changes.
While several leaders from Nyamira and Kisii counties attended, a number of them gave the forum a wide berth.
Kisii Deputy Governor Joash Maangi was the ring leader of the missing team. He had earlier in the morning given an alert.
"We all support the report, why the forum? This is dividing Kenyans further," Maangi, who had said his life was in danger, told the media.
Firebrand South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro also skipped the event. On Thursday, Osoro had told reporters that the meeting was "a waste of resources".
Alfa Miruka, the Bomachoge Chache MP, also a close ally of DP William Ruto, snubbed the meeting.
From Nyamira, MPs Shadrack Mose (Kitutu Masaba), Vincent Kemosi (West Mugirango) and Joash Nyamoko of North Mugirango skipped.
The three are close allies of Deputy President William Ruto. They have been at loggerheads with Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i.
Borabu MP Ben Momanyi asked residents to support Dr Matiang'i, arguing that time had come for a Kisii to be at the realm of power.
The six leaders have been instrumental in Dr Ruto's camp for the past two years from the larger Gusii region.
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