State House explains Ruto's Ksh.10M private jet arrangement with 'Friends'
In
response to recent concerns regarding the private jet chartered by President
William Ruto for his recent trip to the United States, State House Spokesperson
Hussein Mohamed has issued a statement explaining the specifics surrounding the
leased aircraft.
This
comes after Ruto, on Thursday, asserted that he only spent Ksh.10 million to charter the luxurious UAE jet, further highlighting that the amount was a
considerable reduction from his initial proposal of Ksh.20 million to his Arabian
"friends".
Ruto's
sentiments did not sit well with many Kenyans who questioned the integrity of the
President's purported allies. Many were perplexed why the so-called allies only
charged Ruto Ksh.10 million for a round trip to the U.S., a journey that was
estimated to cost upwards of Ksh.200 million.
In his rejoinder Mohamed
emphasized that Kenya's engagement in the international arena involves
partnerships with numerous countries, serving as friends and allies in mutual
cooperation and prosperity.
Specifically addressing
the issue of the jet used by President Ruto, the State House spokesperson noted
that the aircraft was provided by the UAE government and not by any individuals
as previously alleged.
"Kenya operates in
the international multilateral arena and is therefore a friend, partner, and
ally to many countries. As explained by the President on Thursday, the cost of
the jet he traveled in for the historic and successful US State Visit was
offered by friends of Kenya at a relatively low cost," said Mohamed.
"In this specific case,
the United Arab Emirates Government offered the aircraft at less than KSh10
million. This was the most efficient and economical way for the President and
his delegation to undertake a trip of this magnitude."
Referencing the UAE's 2018
donation of military equipment to Kenya, Mohamed underscored the long-standing
relationship between Nairobi and Abu Dhabi.
"This is how
nations operate, supporting and partnering with each other for mutual prosperity,
and there are plenty of examples to illustrate this. In 2018, the UAE
government donated to Kenya six military-grade FENNEC helicopters and three
ECUREUIL trainer aircraft," he said.
"The donation
included accompanying servicing spares, spare parts, and tools, cumulatively
valued at Ksh.4 billion."
Mohamed further
highlighted donations that Kenya is set to receive following President Ruto's
U.S. trip.
"The USA is now
donating to Kenya 16 helicopters and 150 Armoured Security Vehicles under an
agreement signed between the two countries during the President’s State Visit. They
include; 150 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected Vehicles, scheduled for delivery
in September 2024, 8 utility
helicopters, to be delivered in September 2024 and 8 light utility helicopters,
to be delivered by early 2025.," said Mohamed.
"All these
equipment has been donated to Kenya by her friends. Yes, Kenya has friends, and
their interest is to have a secure partner state with which they can trade,
invest, and collaborate."
Additionally, Mohamed underscored Ruto's commitment in implementing austerity measures to ensure Kenya
lives within its means.
"He (Ruto) is
encouraged by government ministries, departments, and agencies taking the cue
and is on course to ensure Kenya records a balanced budget in three years'
time," he said.
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