Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang'i could be one of the most closely followed technocrat in the 2022 polls given his dalliance with President Uhuru Kenyatta.
In February this year, Uhuru showered praises to the hard-working minister, arguing that he should be emulated by his colleagues.
"I am personally proud of him and that's why I decided to task him to oversee development projects across the country. He has been doing well," Uhuru said in Kisii.
And with the rare recognition from the President, Matiang'i is now keen to dictate the political dynamics in his own Gusii region by projecting himself as a de facto kingpin.
While some politicians are not keen to align themselves to his camp, a group of leaders particularly from his Nyamira base led by Governor John Nyagarama are working hard to sell the narrative.
"He is our kingpin and we must work hard to rally for his candidature. Abagusii community is ready to produce a president and the minister has proved that," he said on Friday.
Others pushing for Matiang'i's presidency are Samuel Arama, Richard Onyonka, Okong'o Mogeni, Moffat Teya, Sam Ongeri, Janet Ong'era and a host of MCAs.
In a phone conversation, Borabu MP Ben Momanyi who attended Matiang'i's function in Nyamira on Friday says the minister is only increasing his stake by supporting handshake.
According to the Wiper MP who is keen to take over from Governor John Nyagarama, Matiang'i could be keen to be appointed as one of Deputy Prime Minister in proposed referendum.
"I don't think we have reached a presidential level but he is planning perhaps to be Deputy Prime Minister should the proposed parliamentary system of government go through," he said.
An insider who did not wish to be mentioned said Dr Matiang'i is keen to work with Raila Odinga and President Uhuru Kenyatta. He further says he will go for whatever the two decide.
"He might be the biggest beneficiary of the Handshake. He is however ready to be guided by the two. Whatever they decide is what he will go for."