Kenyans Demonstrate in Nairobi CBD Demanding Implementation of Housing Levy
A group of Jua Kali craftsmen and residents of slums marched through Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on Thursday, urging for the enforcement of the Housing Levy.
During their demonstration, the craftsmen and various invested parties in President William Ruto’s initiative contended that should the project not commence, it would significantly impact their means of living.
In the interim, a group of Nairobi inhabitants residing in informal settlements contended that the successful completion of the project and timely delivery of affordable housing by the government would enhance their quality of life. They highlighted this as a primary motive behind their protest.
The team purportedly planned to go to Parliament to present a petition advocating for the levy’s implementation.
Footage circulated on the internet depicted a gathering of people displaying signs and flags, advocating for the government to guarantee the implementation of the levy for the welfare of the entire Kenyan populace.
“Housing Levy is the cure for better housing,” one of the placards read, “Do not take away our livelihood. Tujenge nyumba tuimarishe uchumi wetu (Let’s build houses and grow our economy),” read another.
Different players operating vehicles took an active part in the protests, encouraging more people to join the movement. Roadshow trucks, playing loud music, not only amused protesters but also caught the attention of people passing by.
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On top of a similar truck, an eager master of ceremonies encouraged the crowd to chant together in unison, repeatedly saying ‘nyumba, nyumba, nyumba,’ aligning with the cause the protesters were supporting. This phrase roughly means ‘house, house, house.’
In the midst of the vocal cheers, an uncommon scene took place where Kenyans transported each other using wheelbarrows, which symbolize President William Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Party.
At the same time, some Kenyans criticized the demonstrations, suggesting that they might be financially supported by the government to promote the housing levy plan.
In November, a three-judge panel deemed the Housing Levy as unconstitutional and discriminatory. Nevertheless, President Ruto announced his intention to enforce it despite the rulings from the court.
“I am telling you this time round, I am implementing it, and I am so determined because we must do it. Whatever it takes we are going to implement it,” he announced in early December.
Moreover, workers from Nakuru County protested against the court decision, expressing concerns that stopping the projects would result in job loss and an increase in criminal behavior.
Kenyans Demonstrate in Nairobi CBD Demanding Implementation of Housing Levy
