President William Ruto on Thursday sought to defend himself against widespread criticism over the extravagant expenses of his recent state visit to the United States.
The controversy arose as Ruto traveled on a chartered Boeing 737-700, reportedly operated by the Royal Jet of Dubai.
The cost of the trip from Nairobi to Atlanta and Washington D.C. was estimated to be around Ksh.98 million, with the total expenses potentially exceeding Ksh.200 million for a round trip.
Addressing the issue during a national prayer breakfast at Safari Park in Nairobi, Ruto attempted to justify his travel expenses, emphasizing his reputation as a frugal leader who is mindful of public spending. He stressed that the perceived extravagance does not reflect his commitment to conserving the public purse.
Ruto confidently stated that he only spent Ksh.10 million to charter the luxurious jet, a price he says was even a bargain from his initial offer of Ksh.20 million to his Arabian “friends”.
“I am a very responsible steward believe you me. There is no way I can spend Ksh.200 million in fact it cost the republic of Kenya less than Ksh.10 million because I am not a madman,” noted Ruto.
“When I was told the cheapest plan was Ksh.70 million I told my office, go and book Kenya Airways so when some friends of mine heard that I was going to travel Kenya Airways, and I have built a big reputation as a country, some friends told me how much are you willing to pay?
I said I’m not willing to spend more than Ksh.20 million they said bring Ksh.10 million we give you the plane.”
The Head of State further maintained that he is willing to lead by example in ensuring that the nation lives within its means.
“Look at me Kenyans, look at me again. I must lead from the front as I tell others to tighten up their belt mine must be where to begin. So relax and the debate must end because I am that responsible and it is going to be that way,” Ruto added.
“My plan is that in 3 years we must have a balanced budget.”
Upon returning to Kenya on May 25 from the week-long trip, Ruto attempted to clear it on his travel expenses, saying the private jet was cheaper than Kenya’s national courier – Kenya Airways (KQ).
“Fellow Kenyans, I have noted concerns on my mode of transport to USA. As a responsible steward of public resources and in keeping with my determination for us to live within our means and that I should lead from the front in so doing, the cost was less than travelling on KQ,” Ruto said in a tweet on May 26.
