The Kenyan government through State House has unveiled the identities of the influential figures behind the private jet that facilitated President William Ruto’s three-day state visit to the United States. The jet, which is said to have cost Ksh10 million, was instrumental in ensuring President Ruto’s historic trip was successful and economical.
Key Details from State House
State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohammed announced on Thursday, May 29, 2024, that the jet used by President Ruto was provided by Kenya’s allies from the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The revelation came during a statement where Hussein Mohammed elaborated on the costs and the strategic friendship that enabled this arrangement.
According to the statement, the UAE government offered the aircraft at a significantly reduced rate, less than Ksh10 million. This generous offer was said to be as a result the strong bilateral relations between Kenya and the UAE. President Ruto, during the National Breakfast Prayer Meeting, had referred to these benefactors as “friends,” saying the goodwill and diplomatic ties that Kenya has with her allies facilitated this arrangement.
President Ruto’s commitment to austerity
In his earlier remarks, President Ruto emphasized that he is dedicated to ensuring proper fiscal responsibility, and that Kenyan taxpayers money is spent judiciously. Ruto rubished the claims that the jet cost over 200 million, saying that as a champion of Kenyans living within their means, there was no way he could spend Ksh. 200 million on a jet.
