The endorsement sets up a battle between Nassir and wealthy businessman Suleiman Shabhal who is also eyeing the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) ticket for 2022. Shabhal ran against Joho for the seat on a Jubilee ticket in 2017 and lost, with ODM still the region's most popular party.

Raila asserted that if elected, his administration would focus on working to to open up new markets for Miraa including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Analysts perceived the latest proposal as an interesting counter to Deputy President Ruto's 'Hustler Nation' agenda which has captured the imagination of a section of Kenyans for its economic proposals.

Questioned on where his relationship with Uhuru and Ruto broke down, Wanjigi stated that it was a matter of disagreement over policy.