Ruto fires back at opposition for criticising affordable housing project

President William Ruto has staunchly defended the affordable housing project and his broader development initiatives, accusing the opposition of spreading propaganda and attempting to hinder progress.

Speaking in Meru County during the commissioning of the Timau project on Thursday, President Ruto emphasised the positive impact of the affordable housing initiative on job creation for the youth.

He mocked the opposition's tactics of staging protests and filing court cases to impede his projects, asserting his unwavering commitment to delivering on promises. The opposition is led by Raila Odinga, leader of the Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) and the Azimio la Umoja One Kenya Alliance.

"These people have toyed with us for many years. This time they can't lie to us again. We have a comprehensive plan," the President said, challenging the opposition to present alternative solutions.

"I  ask the opposition ... instead of spreading propaganda, they should show Kenyans ... Our plan is housing ... our plan is digital jobs and the export of labour. What is their plan?"

Highlighting the government's dedication to job creation, Ruto added, "This is the administration that has a deliberate, intentional plan for creating jobs in Kenya."

He asserted that his government is the first in Kenya with a clear roadmap for generating employment opportunities.

The Timau project, commissioned during the President's visit, will see the construction of 320 units. The President expressed confidence that it will result in more than 4,000 jobs and inject more than Sh230 million into the economy.

He disclosed plans to build around 10,000 houses in the county, noting that the project has already employed 130,000 youth.

Last November, Odinga asked employers to stop paying the 1.5 per cent housing levy and ignore threats from the government about consequences. At the time, a court had ruled that the tax was unconstitutional, a decision that the opposition chief supported.

The argument by opponents of the levy is that it will overburden a public that is already paying too much in taxes.

A court ruling is expected on Friday on whether the tax will stand, after parties' arguments are heard and the views of the public are considered.