President William Ruto has once again drawn public attention after being spotted using an iPhone 17 Pro Max, a device valued at approximately KSh 260,000 during Prime Cabainet secretary Musalia Mudavadi’s son wedding.The sighting has intensified ongoing criticism from Kenyans who argue that the President’s lifestyle reflects excessive luxury at a time when the country is grappling with harsh economic realities.
Ruto’s display of high-end gadgets and designer fashion has long been a sticking point for his critics, who say it contradicts the “hustler” narrative he championed during his campaign. The president often portrayed himself as a leader who understood the struggles of ordinary citizens.
Among the items that have sparked debate are designer jackets allegedly worth KSh 6.2 million, a Rolex Daytona valued at over KSh 5.8 million, a Bulgari watch estimated at KSh 8.7 million, as well as Christian Louboutin shoes and Stefano Ricci belts and shirts.
His lifestyle controversies extend beyond fashion. In September 2025, Ruto reportedly used a chartered Gulfstream GV private jet to travel to Ethiopia, costing about KSh 2.6 million per hour. The trip’s total expense is estimated to have exceeded KSh 12 million.
Government officials defended the decision, noting that the official presidential jet remains grounded for maintenance. Still, the spending continues to fuel debate about leadership priorities during a period of rising taxes, inflation, and widespread economic hardship.
