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Former Defence Cabinet Secretary Eugene Wamalwa has reprimanded President William Ruto for using a chartering private jet for his concluded US State Visit.

Speaking on a local TV station, the Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) party leader indicated that Ruto went against his push for implementing austerity measures in various government agencies.

Wamalwa argued that it was inappropriate for President Ruto to hire a private jet in the face of rising taxes and claims of empty coffers by government officials.

“You cannot say we don’t have money to pay for this, then the taxes you keep raising you are spending these taxes in a luxurious way,” stated.

“What is so special about William Ruto that he must hire such an expensive jet?” Wamalwa posed.

The Azimio la Umoja Principal pointed out that Ruto squandered a golden opportunity to market Kenya Airways during his State Visit and chose to use a private jet which did not leave a memorable symbol to his American hosts that can be used to promote tourism in the country.

“It is also a way of the President failing to market Kenya Airways. Any President who is a patriot must show pride in going with Kenya Airways and flying the Kenyan flag and marketing it to the world,” he insisted.

He alluded to his time in government where he indicated that former President Uhuru Kenyatta strived to promote local brands including Kenya Airways during his various trips abroad.

Ruto’s response

On Sunday, May 26, 2024, President Ruto responded to public criticism over the use of a private jet for his State Visit. In a statement, Ruto explained that the chartered plane was a less costly option compared to Kenya Airways. During his trip, he used a Boeing 737-700.

“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 detailed.

Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura also dismissed critics arguing that the benefits of the trip supersede the costs.

“The President has to undertake what is necessary travel and he is doing that. The cost of the trip is really nothing compared to the benefits it will bring to the country,” he stated.

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