Despite the fact that he's yet to formally announce his bid to succeed President Uhuru, former Prime Minister Raila Odinga has often kept check on his strongholds.
For the last ten years, Mr Odinga has often topped the larger Gusii region, whose population could be 1.3 million by the time Kenya goes to the next polls.
In September, Mr Odinga hosted a group of Gusii leaders at his Capitol Hill offices, with Kisii Governor James Ongwae leading the delegation.
Over the weekend, Suba South MP John Mbadi conceded that Prof Sam Ongeri, is now a dependable figure at Raila Odinga's inner circle team.
During the burial of Dr Hezron Manduku, Mr Ongeri hinted his strong association with Odinga, recalling the meeting he held with Dr Fred Matiang'i during post election violence.
"We were all worried. I had to meet Matiang'i in my house and we all agreed to talk to our principals. I was to brief Raila about our meeting," he said.
For years, Mr Odinga has been working closely with Ongwae, a career civil servant. Their relationship dates back to 2003 when Narc goverment was formed.
Throughout, Governor Ongwae has often worked closely with Raila, advising him on critical matters that are necessary in politics. He's serving his second term.
And ODM treasurer Timothy Bosire is yet another dependable person in Raila's camp. The former Kitutu Masaba MP commands respect within the Orange House.
Recently, Bosire said ODM still commands huge following in Kisii and Nyamira Counties. He dismissed Deputy President William Ruto's frequent trips to the region.
"This is an ODM zone. It's impossible for someone to penetrate by just launching ghost projects. When the right time comes, our people will do the right thing," he said.
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