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Ruto Lands in Controversy for Using Private Jet for US Visit

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Ruto Lands in Controversy for Using Private Jet for US Visit

(3 Minutes Read)

Ruto rejected claims that the trip cost US$1.5 million, calling them exaggerated. Speaking at a National Prayer Breakfast in Nairobi on Thursday, May 30, he emphasized he wouldn’t waste taxpayers’ money, despite backlash and questions from the public. During his three-day official visit to the US, Kenya secured investment deals worth billions of dollars.

Kenya’s President William Ruto has defended using a private plane for his recent trip to the US. His critics said that the plane cost about 10 million shillings (USD 73,000). He added this was a discounted rate offered by some friends,” and cheaper than the national airline, which he initially planned to use.

Ruto rejected claims that the trip cost US$1.5 million, calling them exaggerated. Speaking at a National Prayer Breakfast in Nairobi on Thursday, May 30, he emphasized he wouldn’t waste taxpayers’ money, despite backlash and questions from the public. During his three-day official visit to the US, Kenya secured investment deals worth billions of dollars. During the visit, vice President Kamala Harris announced the formation of a new partnership to help provide internet access to 80% of Africa by 2030, up from roughly 40% now.

Besides launching the nonprofit Partnership for Digital Access in Africa, Harris announced an initiative geared toward giving 100 million African people and businesses in the agricultural sector access to the digital economy.

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Upon returning, Ruto explained he was initially set to book Kenya Airways for himself and 30 others. However, friends offered a cheaper private jet when they learned he would fly commercially. Ruto insisted he leads by example in cutting costs and urged critics to “relax.” Yet, questions persist about the appropriateness of accepting such offers.