RUTO DEFENDS FOREIGN TRIPS, SAYS DIPLOMACY IS PART OF HIS JOB.

President William Ruto has strongly defended his frequent foreign trips, saying diplomacy and attracting global partners are part of the responsibility Kenyans gave him when they elected him president.

Speaking during a church fundraiser in Kajiado County on Sunday, President Ruto dismissed criticism from members of the public and opposition leaders over the cost and number of his international visits.

“That is the job you elected me to do,” Ruto emphasized.

The President described himself as Kenya’s “Chief Diplomat,” insisting that his travels are aimed at securing development opportunities, trade agreements, and foreign investment for the country.

“Every trip I make is work related. I do not go on vacation,” he said.

According to government reports, Kenya has in recent years been seeking more foreign investment to help improve infrastructure, create jobs, and boost sectors such as agriculture, technology, and manufacturing. Political analysts say presidents often travel abroad to strengthen diplomatic ties and negotiate economic partnerships with other countries.

However, Ruto’s travels have continued to attract criticism from opposition leaders and some Kenyans who argue that the trips are expensive at a time when many citizens are struggling with the high cost of living.

Critics say the government should reduce spending on travel and focus more on local economic challenges.

During the church event, Ruto also reached out to religious leaders and rejected suggestions that he should slow down his activities. He said his schedule remains busy for the next six months.

The opposition has promised to continue monitoring government spending on foreign travel, but Ruto maintained that more diplomatic trips are necessary for Kenya’s growth and international cooperation.