- He said that the President is working hard to fix the economy which the Kenya Kwanza leaders have said was left behind while dilapidated.
- Moments before flying to Congo, Ruto had announced the reduction of the travel budget by Sh11 billion.
Image: FILE/FELIX KIPKEMOI
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura has claimed that President William Ruto's many foreign trips have brought more fortune to the country.
The former nominated lawmaker laughed off the barrage of criticism and concerns over President Ruto's international trips, saying they have brought significant benefits to Kenyans.
"When Ruto assumed the presidency of Kenya, the nation was facing financial challenges. It is common for heads of state to engage in such international trips to negotiate debt agreements. These diplomatic missions have resulted in tangible gains, including improved electricity and road infrastructure," Mwaura stated.
Mwaura spoke during the graduation ceremony of East African Legislative Assembly (EALA) MP David Sankok's daughter, Naserian Sankok, at Melili in Narok North Constituency.
He said that the President is working hard to fix the economy which the Kenya Kwanza leaders have said was left behind while dilapidated.
Mwaura pointed out that the President has committed to enhancing infrastructure and expanding electricity coverage.
“If you have been supporters of Azimio, I urge you to come to Kenya Kwanza. That is where development lies,” he said.
The President has come under heavy criticism with leaders questioning the gains Kenyans stand to reap from his many trips abroad.
The President has flown out of the country overseas many times with his trips over the last year estimated to be nearly 40.
Ruto's economic advisor and renowned economist David Ndii has stressed the significance of Ruto's numerous visits outside the country.
Explaining the essentiality of Ruto's recent travel, Ndii, who chairs the Presidential Council of Economic Advisors, suggested the trips are strategic and of importance to the country.
Referring to the President's latest trip to Congo-Brazzaville on Saturday, days after landing back from China, Ndii said:
''Kenya is the Chair of the AU’s Committee of African Heads of State on Climate Change(CAHOSCC),'' he said on his X account, formerly Twitter.
Moments before flying to Congo, Ruto had announced the reduction of the travel budget by Sh11 billion.
Speaking in Taita Taveta County on Friday, Ruto said the move was part of cost-cutting measures.
" I saw that the media saying I reduced the budget by Sh500 million. No, it is not 500 million but I have reduced by Sh11 billion for those going on those trips," Ruto said.
“I will knock off a few things in my budget again including my travel allowances so that I can find Sh500 million. The money will be used to start a factory that will manufacture local devices that will assist learners with special needs."