Ruto fires back at critics over push to scrap affordable housing project
President William Ruto has strongly defended his government’s Affordable Housing Programme, dismissing those opposing it as people “lacking sense.”
The Head of State, speaking on Monday, October 27, 2025, in Nakuru, stated that his administration will not halt the project despite criticism from a section of leaders and Kenyans who believe it has become a burden to workers.
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Ruto questioned why anyone would want the housing initiative stopped when it has created thousands of jobs for young people. “Mnasema tuendelee na kujenga ama tusiendelee? Kuna watu wengine wako na akili kidogo wanasema tusimamishe. Na kabla hawajatuambia tusimamishe watuambie hawa vijana wote watafanya kazi gani tukisimamisha hizi kazi, wako na kazi ingine ya kuwapatia?” Ruto said.
The president maintained that the affordable housing project remains one of his top development priorities. He noted that the programme is not only meant to provide decent homes but also to create employment for thousands of youth across the country. Ruto added that the government will continue to expand the project to different counties to ensure more Kenyans benefit.
Levy burdening Kenyans
Critics like Murang’a Senator Joe Nyutu, however, faulted the housing plan, saying it has brought more suffering to Kenyans, particularly those in formal employment.
Nyutu said the mandatory housing levy deducted from salaries every month has worsened the financial pressure on already struggling workers.
“Affordable housing has burdened Kenyans, especially salaried workers,” he said during an interview with a local media outlet on Monday, October 6, 2025.
The senator argued that while the project may aim to solve the housing deficit, the financing model is unfair to workers who are forced to contribute without clear timelines or guarantees of owning the houses. He urged the government to find alternative ways of funding the project instead of overtaxing citizens.
In September 2025, President Ruto revealed that former President Uhuru Kenyatta had personally called him to emphasise the importance of ensuring the housing programme continues. Ruto said Uhuru warned him about the levy but also urged him not to abandon the plan.
Speaking at a teachers’ meeting in the State House on Saturday, September 13, 2025, Ruto recounted the moment Uhuru called him to discuss the housing programme and ensure the levy was implemented correctly.
Despite the mixed reactions, Ruto has vowed to push forward with the project, insisting it is key to Kenya’s economic transformation.
