Sakaja blasts leaders opposing use of housing levy for social amenities

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja/FILE

Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja has hit out at politicians opposing the use of the housing levy to construct supportive infrastructure around affordable housing units.

Sakaja said the Council of Governors fully supports President William Ruto’s affordable housing programme, including the allocation of levy funds for the construction of markets, schools, and hospitals.

The governor criticised wealthy individuals and political leaders who, despite enjoying a lavish lifestyle, are against initiatives aimed at improving the lives of ordinary Kenyans.

“I’ve heard some people oppose the use of the housing levy for building amenities within affordable housing projects. That’s unreasonable and selfish,” Sakaja said.

“We are not building houses for the rich, don’t stand in the way when a normal Kenyan is being helped, you have multi-million homes.”

Speaking during a church service in Makadara on Sunday, June 8, 2025, Sakaja lauded the President’s vision, describing the inclusion of social infrastructure in the housing plan as a “dream come true” for millions of Kenyans.

“If you go to Mukuru, Kibra, and Lang’ata, houses are being built by the thousands. Affordable housing isn’t just about shelter—it’s about building entire communities with essential amenities,” he said.

“We are not creating vertical slums. We’re building dignified homes complete with hospitals, schools, markets, and fire stations.”

The governor also dismissed critics who oppose the inclusion of such infrastructure, accusing them of being out of touch with the plight of ordinary Kenyans.

“How can you fight such a programme, yet you live in homes with over ten toilets and a gazebo? That’s pure hypocrisy,” he remarked.

Opposition leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, have been vocal in opposing the use of housing levy funds for building social amenities.

Meanwhile, the Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) has distanced itself from the government's claims that it was involved in drafting regulations for the affordable housing programme, including provisions on the use of levy funds.

This follows remarks by Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga on Friday, who accused COTU of misleading the public. Hinga insisted that the union participate in the legislative process and that the law provide for both housing units and supporting infrastructure.

But in a statement on Saturday, COTU Secretary-General Francis Atwoli denied any such involvement, challenging the government to provide evidence of the union's participation.

“As COTU (K), we have never been consulted, formally or informally, on the development, review, or approval of the current affordable housing regulations,” Atwoli said.

“In fact, at no point did the executive board of COTU (K)—which is the legally mandated decision-making body—meet to deliberate or resolve to support those regulations.”