‘Tighten Your Belts…’ President Ruto’s Ksh.425,000 Belt Shocks Kenyans
Presidential William Ruto ignited the internet on Sunday when, while attending a church service at the Priesthood Fellowship Church in Kahawa West, Nairobi, he stepped out donning a belt worth Ksh.425,000 ($2800).
As he addressed congregation members, the President, who has recently been criticized for implementing tax policies that have financially stifled Kenyans, was observed by astute fashion observers donning an expensive belt made of matted crocodile leather featuring a gold buckle inscribed with the initials ‘SR’.
The Stefano Ricci crocodile belt has been recognized by numerous prestigious fashion publications (e.g., Vogue and GQ) as one of the finest and most expensive belts in the industry.
At a time when the government continues to advise Kenyans to tighten their belts and prepare for worse days ahead, the president’s belt sparked controversy on the internet, with many unable to believe that a belt could cost that much and that a president who ostensibly advocates for cost-cutting austerity measures could appear in public wearing one.
The president has previously caused a stir and generated considerable discussion with his sartorial choices. The Ksh.15,000 shoe that Ruto wore on September 3 trod on numerous toes.
Kenyans were also captivated by Dr. Ruto’s Run Star Hike Converse footwear at the Youth Africa Climate Change Summit at KICC, Nairobi.
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The shoes are listed for a bargain $110 (approximately Ksh 15,000) on the official Converse website.
Ruto, whose recent fashion has been dominated by well-fitting Kaunda suits, was recently observed in Kampala, Uganda, donning pricey Salvatore Ferragamo loafers.
Regarding the belt, the president declared that he would put into effect every recommendation put forth by the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO), which was composed of members from the opposition Azimio la Umoja and governing Kenya Kwanza coalitions.
For Kenya to advance, he further advocated for a 50% reduction in government expenditure, as opposed to just a 30% reduction. He urged leaders to live within their means.
“They have given recommendations all those recommendations are okay. Where they said we lessen Government spending by 50%, I have done that already. For those calling for lessening to be done by 30%, I suggest that they increase it to 50% for Kenya to move forward. We must learn to live within our means,” he added.
‘Tighten Your Belts…’ President Ruto’s Ksh.425,000 Belt Shocks Kenyans
