For close to 30 minutes, businesses came into standstill in Eldoret town, undisputed stronghold of DP William Ruto, when Gideon Moi visited on Wednesday.
The two former allies cum foes have expressed desire to succeed President Uhuru Kenyatta whose term comes to end in 2022.
In his red Land Cruiser, curious residents noticed the presence of Baringo Senator as some blocked his way forcing him to stand for an address.
A visibly excited Moi, through sunroof, waved to admirers before sending a strong message on VAT and devolved government.
"I am happy to be in Eldoret, my second home. Seeing you around is my pleasure. It is a wonderful experience.
"As your leaders, we want to ensure more money is pumped to counties to uplift your lives. We also want the president to change his mind and lower VAT to zero," he said.
Although the region is perceived to be Ruto's home turf, Moi is making inroads through a section of local leaders among them Moiben MP Silas Tiren.
During the stopover that saw people abandoning their businesses to listen to him, Moi also asked government to pay expeditiously farmers who have been waiting for their dues.
He was attending Senate proceedings in North Rift which covered Nandi, Uasin Gishu, Elgeyo Marakwet and Baringo.
Rift Valley rivalry between Moi and Ruto has led to divisions among local leaders with Cherangany MP Jushua Kutuny calling for truce.
Last week, a section of KANU leaders asked President Uhuru Kenyatta to back Mr. Moi for the top seat in 2022.
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