In a rare show of power and privileges, Deputy President William Ruto on Saturday boarded a Kenya Air Force plane to Wajir County, where he's scheduled to commission several government projects.
Kenya Defense Forces planes are usually a preserve of Commander-in-Chief of armed forces, who is also the president and top military officials. But the DP at times can make a special request to the military to be accorded the privilege since presidency is a joint venture.
Last month, Dr Ruto's office advertised a tender that would allow him to acquire a helicopter and a fixed wing aircraft for his travels across the country. The DP has a right to use air transport which is fully paid for by the treasury.
“The government of Kenya through the Office of the Deputy President invites tenders for air charter services (namely) helicopter (and) fixed wing aircraft,” said the DP’s office in the tender notice posted in local dailies.
At Wajir, Ruto is scheduled to attend among others, official opening of Wajir East Volunteer Girls Secondary School, opening of Juboro Girls Secondary School, Commissioning of new power generator at Wajir.
Last month, his favorite candidate for Wajir West by-election Ahmed Kolosh scooped the seat after beating KANU's Ibrahim Sheikh. The rally at Wajir Town is expected to be a thanksgiving ceremony for Mr Kolosh.
In Wajir airstrip, Dr Ruto was received by Governor Mohamed Abdi, who also narrowly survived a Supreme Court duel launched by former governor Ahmed Mohamoud. Other county leaders were also present.
"Hustler Nation ready to welcome the Deputy President William Ruto in Wajir County," tweeted Ainabkoi MP William Chepkut, who was in Ruto's entourage.
Since taking office in 2013, Dr Ruto has never been seen boarding a military plane. However, President Uhuru Kenyatta often uses them when visiting countries within East Africa. His official Republic of Kenya plane is also commandeered by an officer from Kenya Air Force.
Usually, when military planes ferry a top government official, they are closely monitored from Eastleigh Air Base, the official headquarters of Kenya Air Force. In 2009, a military plane carrying retired President Mwai Kibaki was forced to make emergency landing in Kisii following engine failure.
During his previous tours across the country, Dr Ruto has often used helicopters associated with him. In 2014, he was criticised for hiring the famous hustler's jet using taxpayers.