Prof Peter Anyang' Nyong'o is not a stranger in the Kenyan political scene.
His over 20 years political experience speaks volumes of his shrewdness when it comes to political survival.
Even as he scales up his political ambitions to the seat of the Governor Kisumu County, his dreams appear valid.
The veteran politician has perfected the art of being 'down-to-earth'.
He has remained humble to his people right from the days he was the MP for Kisumu Rural, the people he represented for 15 years.
Then came 2013, he easily won the Senatorial seat on an ODM ticket.
The Political Science Professor who is at his 70s is part of Raila's inner circle.
Being the former Secretary General of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM), he knows the operation of the party both from outside and within.
Despite having a questionable development during his 15 years as MP, the former Medical Services Minister's closeness to 'Baba' will play to his favour come 2017.
It has happened before where he proved the doubters wrong.
His appeal to the people he represents is evident, something that has made him to be a key political figure in that pro-opposition.
Governor Jack Ranguma may be popular, yes, but his popularity may be swept under the carpet come 2017.
To the electorate in Kisumu, the fact that Senator Nyong'o has equally had a rough terrain in his political journey is enough to show that he equally shares the same feelings with Raila Odinga, the regions political kingpin.
Furthermore, he enjoys cool relationship with most Members of County Assembly on the ground.
So, he will capitalize on that warm relationship to clinch the seat and control Kenya's third biggest City.
So write off Prof Nyong'o at your own risk.