For the second time in as many days, Interior Cabinet Secretary Fred Matiang'i has missed two important functions at his Nyamira backyard amid rumours that he may have abandoned DP William Ruto.
On Friday, Matiang'i delegated duties to Interior CAS Patrick Ntutu who presided burning of gambling machines.
And on Monday, the Interior Cabinet Secretary was also missing as the DP landed in Kitutu Masaba constituency where he is expected to launch multi-million water project at Nyangori.
"We have several leaders who have joined us and others who may have not made it. It was our intention to have all of them on board," said Kitutu Masaba MP Shadrack Mose.
He added: "Our Interior Minister Matiang'i should have been around but he was to appear in parliament over contraband sugar probe. He has sent his apologies to the DP."
But in recent weeks, Matiang'i has reduced his presence in the larger Gusii region, a move that has further raised eyebrows.
A section of Gusii leaders have been pushing to have the tough talking minister deputise Ruto in 2022 elections in a crowded Jubilee in-house competition.
On Monday, Matiang'i was among four ministers who appeared for probe over illegal sugar which is also said to be containing mercury.