President William Ruto’s administration faces scrutiny over the impending implementation of the Affordable Housing Bill, scheduled to become law today.
Thirdway Alliance Party leader Ekuru Aukot has highlighted concerns regarding the government’s approach to taxing Kenyans without fixed incomes and how the funds will be utilized.
According to Aukot, a crucial aspect the government has yet to clarify is the methodology for taxing citizens and allocating the collected revenues.
In an interview on Citizen TV, Aukot criticized the government for disappointing impoverished Kenyans despite initial promises of support.
“The presidency of William Ruto is what Kenyans can now agree was a long con.
It was promising Kenyans heaven and earth that we will do this for Mama Mboga but now the law that has been passed in Parliament is punishing that person,” he remarked.
Aukot also questioned the transparency of the housing program, expressing doubts about the equitable distribution of constructed homes.
He argued that these residences would likely benefit the financially capable while the underprivileged are compelled to contribute.
“We don’t even know the formula of distribution of those houses.
That is the context I think the leaders didn’t take into account when they were passing this law,” he added.
The legality of the housing levy has been a contentious issue, with a previous court ruling deeming its collection unconstitutional.
However, amendments introduced in the bill, such as involving county governments, were passed by both the Senate and the National Assembly last week.
Despite past legal challenges, President Ruto is anticipated to sign the Housing Bill into law, facilitating the resumption of levy deductions.
The bill mandates all Kenyans, irrespective of employment status, to contribute 1.5% of their monthly earnings to the Affordable Housing Fund.
Critics have raised concerns about the levy’s legal framework, with a three-judge bench in 2023 ruling it discriminatory and a violation of Kenya’s constitution.
Police Raid Mathe Wa Ngara Drugs Den, Arrest Four And Recover 100 Kilos Of Bhang
