President William Ruto on Thursday, May 30 responded to concerns raised over his trip to the US which was alleged to have cost Ksh200 million.
While speaking during the National Prayer Breakfast in Nairobi, Ruto revealed that the private plane cost Kenyan taxpayers less than Ksh10 million.
"I am a responsible steward, there is no way I can spend Ksh200 million, in fact, let me disclose here that it cost the Republic of Kenya less than Ksh10 million," he stated.
The Head of State revealed that when he was informed that the cheapest plane was Ksh70 million, he asked his team to book with the national carrier.
However, the President noted that when some of his friends heard about his travel plans, they offered him a cheaper plane.
"My friends asked me how much are you willing to pay. I told them I was not ready to pay more than Ksh20 million. They told me to bring Ksh10 million and we will give you the plane," he revealed.
He emphasised that he was at the forefront to ensure the austerity measures were being implemented.
Ruto reiterated that he would lead the country in the right direction by adhering to the austerity measures and cutting down on his expenditure.
"As I tell others to tighten their belts, mine must be where to begin," he added.
The Head of State therefore remarked on the debate on his trip to the US and the cost adding that Kenyans should focus on what Kenya gained from the trip.
During his speech, Ruto emphasised that Kenya will continue living within its means adding that in the next three years, Kenya will not need to borrow to fund the budget.
Ruto added that he had given instructions to the National Treasury Cabinet Secretary Njuguna Ndung'u, the Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo and others to ensure this goal is achieved.
"I am proud of the support I get from my economic led by Professor Ndii and all the others. They are doing a good job," he stated.
