President William Ruto reiterated his commitment to proceed with his administration’s affordable housing programs, despite the Court of Appeal’s decision on Friday to uphold a High Court order declaring the housing levy unconstitutional.
Speaking in Kiutine, Meru County on Friday, Ruto emphasized that, despite the court ruling, he has garnered substantial public support to push forward with the housing initiatives, which he believes will generate employment opportunities for Kenyan youth.
Ruto likened the perceived public backing to receiving a directive from God. “Are you saying housing should continue or not? Those advocating for housing to continue, I see it in your hands. Aren’t you the ones who represent Kenya? Is there more significant public participation than yours? Your command is God’s command. So, I have sufficient directive, and I will advance the housing projects,” said Ruto.
In its Friday ruling, the Court of Appeal maintained that the Housing Levy was implemented without a legal framework.
The court stated, “The trial Court held that the Housing Levy was introduced without a legal framework. It also held that the levy was targeting a section of Kenyans. In our view, public interest lies in awaiting the determination of the appeal.”
The ruling further emphasized the potential irreversible consequences if a stay on the High Court order was granted prematurely.
It stated, “This is because if the stay sought is granted at this stage, should the appellate Court affirm the impugned decision, then some far-reaching decisions that will have been undertaken pursuant to the impugned laws may not be reversible.”
The Housing levy controversy has led to disagreements between members of the ruling Kenya Kwanza government and opposition-aligned legislators regarding its introduction. Raila Odinga, the leader of Azimio la Umoja, has urged all employers to halt remittances of the housing levy in compliance with the High Court ruling.
Despite the opposition, Ruto has maintained that the Housing plan is a crucial pillar of his administration. Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has also urged the Judiciary to consider the broader societal impact of its decision, arguing that the levy is essential for the government to address Kenya’s housing shortage by building houses on a large scale.
