ODM officials stress that any negotiations must be conducted from a position of strength,l.
With their candidate holding a key post, preferably the deputy presidency.
Treasury Chief Secretary John Mbadi, Cooperatives Secretary Wycliffe Oparanya, Mining Secretary Hassan Joho, and Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga are also potential ODM candidates.
Choosing a running partner from Western Kenya or Luoland will change the regional balance, which is essential in Kenyan politics.
Analysts believe Hassan Joho could be a smart pick if Ruto selects an ODM deputy to maintain regional balance.
Mt Kenya leaders, on the other hand, remain steadfast in their support for Kindiki's viewpoint.
They say that the region's support for Ruto is contingent on Mt Kenya East retaining the deputy presidency.
Several MPs from the region have urged against replacing Kindiki, arguing that Mt Kenya has enough votes to negotiate from a position of power.