President William Ruto has defended his decision to fly to the United States of America using a chartered flight.
Speaking during the national prayer breakfast held at Safari Park in Nairobi, the president said he is a frugal leader and cannot afford to spend public money.
Ruto revealed he only spent KSh 10 million to charter the luxurious jet and it was a bargain from the initial offer of KSh 20 million.
“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,”
“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, a have built a big reputation as a country, some friends told me how much are you willing to pay? I said I was willing to spend more than Ksh.20 million they said bring Ksh.10 million we give you the plane,” Ruto said.
The president insisted that he is willing to lead by example by ensuring that the country 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,”
“My plan is that in 3 years we must have a balanced budget,” he added.
Kenyans have criticised Ruto for hiring a luxurious Boeing 737 700 for his trip
This flight came at a cost of at least KSh 2.4m ($18,000) per hour.
Many Kenyans felt outraged and labelled his decision insensitive, citing current economic hardships in Kenya worsened by the new and increased taxes.
