Why KDF Choppers Are No Longer Easily Accessible
Stringent Conditions for Chopper Use
National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah explains the stringent conditions set by the Ministry of Defense for using its choppers by senior government officials. Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly on Wednesday, Ichung’wah clarifies that these measures aim to curb the high costs of operation.
Kenya Defence Forces pilots conduct a fly test of the six MD-530F helicopters purchased
through the United States Foreign Military Sales (FMS)
Excessive Expenditure
“The Defense Cabinet Secretary, Aden Duale, informed me that in the last year, the aircraft used by the Deputy President, the Prime Cabinet Secretary, and other senior government officials incurred an expenditure of Sh500 million for KDF,” Ichung’wah stated.
Cost-Sharing and Policy Changes
KDF wrote to several offices whose top leadership used its aircraft, seeking to share the costs. However, some offices declined to do so. Consequently, this runaway cost forced KDF to regulate the use of its choppers to avoid further expenditure.
Presidential Privilege
Ichung’wah emphasizes that only the president, who is the commander-in-chief of the armed forces, has unfettered access to military aircraft. Other officials must request the use of aircraft through the Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei.
Scrutiny of DP Gachagua’s Travel Arrangements
Recently, Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua faced scrutiny over his travel arrangements. Details emerged that he was being deliberately denied access to KDF choppers. His late arrival at the Akurinu National Prayer Conference, in Nakuru, raised concerns about his travel issues. The conference was attended by President William Ruto.
Transportation Challenges
“Nilikuwa na matatizo with my transport arrangements, halafu ikaingia mambo ya hewa, nikachelewa kutoka… nikakwama pale kati ya Longonot na Naivasha karibu two hours ndo nikafika hapa,” Gachagua explained.
Maintenance and Alternatives
Ichung’wah informs the National Assembly that the Kenya Airforce Chopper used by the Deputy President is undergoing maintenance.
“The Defence CS told me the Deputy President was assigned a police chopper piloted by Kenya Air Force personnel. The chopper is still under maintenance,” he said.
Final Stages of Maintenance
“The Defence Cabinet Secretary tells me that in the next few weeks, they will finalize the maintenance. It is not just a police aircraft maintained by the government; it is flown and operated by Kenya Airforce pilots and servicemen,” Ichung’wah added.
