After setting in motion an anti-ODM wave in the Coast that is slowly destabilizing Raila Odinga's support base in the region, Kilifi Governor Amason Kingi has now 'disappeared' leaving many guessing on his political game plan.
Amid claims that he is being courted by Deputy President William Ruto to bankroll his 2022 political ambitions, Kingi is literally operating with one leg out of ODM. And on the local political scene, his rivalry with Mombasa Governor Hassan Joho is now an open secret.
Leading a team of other perceived ODM rebels including Malindi MP Aisha Jumwa and her Msambweni counterpart Suleiman Dori, the firebrand Governor is widely seen as Ruto's new point-man in the region that is slowly emerging as the new battleground in President Uhuru Kenyatta succession race.
However, over the last few days, the Kilifi County Chief has maintained an uncharacteristically low political profile.
Even during the DP's recent visit of the region, Kingi's absence was conspicuous. And generally, he has not been very vocal on many political matters including the referendum push by a section of politicians both from NAS and Jubilee.
What exactly is in Kingi's mind? What is his political strategy? Is he reading the political mood on the ground before making a move?