Aukot Pokes Holes Into Housing Bill, Labels Ruto’s Presidency a “Long Con”
Thirdway Alliance Party leader Ekuru Aukot has expressed notable apprehensions regarding the proposed Affordable Housing Bill, which is set to be enacted into law on Tuesday, March 19. Aukot has specifically highlighted concerns about the implementation strategies outlined by the government of President William Ruto.
On Tuesday, March 19, Aukot raised concerns about the government’s approach to implementing the controversial bill, specifically highlighting uncertainties around the criteria for taxation and the allocation of the funds collected.
Aukot, appearing on Citizen TV, expressed dismay over the government’s failure to elucidate its taxation strategy, stating, “The stickiest question the government has failed to elucidate on is the criteria it plans to use to tax Kenyans and also utilize the collected monies.”
He additionally condemned Ruto’s government for purportedly letting down Kenyans residing in poverty, going against previous commitments to improve their situation.
“The presidency of William Ruto is what Kenyans can now agree was a long con,” Aukot asserted, adding, “It was promising Kenyans heaven and earth…but now the law that has been passed in Parliament is punishing that person.”
Aukot also criticized the housing initiative linked to the legislation, pointing out its vague provisions concerning the allocation of newly built residences.
He argued that the homes would likely remain accessible only to the financially capable, despite contributions from the poor. “We don’t even know the formula of distribution of those houses,” he remarked, emphasizing the oversight in the legislative process.
The Affordable Housing Bill, previously entangled in legal obstacles, has now secured endorsement from both the Senate and the National Assembly.
Significantly, changes were made, such as incorporating county governments into the process.
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President Ruto is anticipated to approve the bill, consequently reinstating deductions for the housing levy.
According to the suggested bill, every citizen of Kenya, regardless of their employment status, will need to allocate 1.5% of their monthly income to the Affordable Housing Fund. Nonetheless, this levy has sparked debate, as legal disputes argue it may be discriminatory and violate constitutional rights.
A trio of judges had previously declared the collection of housing levies unconstitutional, leading to amendments to the legislation.
Notwithstanding these obstacles, the government is determined to enforce the deduction of levies by March 2024’s conclusion.
Aukot restated his worries, especially regarding the practicality of the legislation and its impact on most Kenyans. He condemned President Ruto for purportedly ignoring legal principles and claimed that he was exploiting parliamentary procedures to pass contentious laws.
In response to Aukot’s critiques, Beatrice Elachi, a Member of Parliament, advocated for prioritizing the offering of solutions and leading Kenyans toward progress.
Aukot’s statements highlight ongoing concerns and criticisms about the Affordable Housing Bill, demonstrating a wider skepticism towards the government’s policies and methods of implementation.
On Monday, March 18, Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah declared his intention to take legal action to halt the updated version of the Housing Levy.
Aukot Pokes Holes Into Housing Bill, Labels Ruto’s Presidency a “Long Con”