Just over a month after he lined up a powerful team of loyalists who would represent him in social functions in Nyanza, Deputy President William Ruto may have since changed the strategy.
For weeks now, MPs allied to DP from Gusii region have been battling for recognition, a move that led to Ruto's decision to drop the idea.
"Some of us wants to keep the DP on their own. If it is team work, let it be. There is no need to subject us to our colleague as the overall leader," North Mugirango MP Joash Nyamoko said.
Insiders say a section of MPs were opposed to approach used by South Mugirango MP Sylvanus Osoro whom they accuse of blackmailing them.
Instead, the DP is now using projects powered by ministries in which his lieutenants are in charge to initiate development projects.
"Because it is now about services, the DP is working with CSs allied to him to pump more resources to Gusii," said a source who spoke in confidence.
A fortnight ago, Water Cabinet Secretary Simon Chelgui led a section of Gusii leaders in identifying various projects for completion.
Further, on Thursday, Energy CS Charles Keter, held a lengthy meeting with a number of Gusii MPs are the government embarks on electricity connections in the region.
For years, the region has backed ODM leader Raila Odinga and the DP is keen to change voting dynamics.