President William Ruto is facing opposition from inside his own party after certain UDA politicians expressed displeasure with the proposed 3% housing charge.
The rebellious UDA faction, led by West Pokot Deputy Governor Robert Komolle, requested Ruto to hold down on the housing charge.
People, he claims, are willing to have 3% of their monthly salary withdrawn, and he urges Ruto to wait until the economy stabilizes.
“In my opinion, the 3% housing levy should be implemented next year, once the economy has stabilized.”
“Our teachers and county government employees are not willing to contribute 3%,” Komolle added.
Another UDA faction, backed by Senator Julius Murgor, urged Ruto to proceed with his housing plans.
Murgor noted that the Finance Bill 2023, which includes the planned housing fund, will be passed as is.
“Our president has stated that there are two options: we pay taxes to sustain ourselves or we borrow loans and sink as a country,” Murgor explained.
Politicians from Central Kenya, where the president enjoys widespread backing, also demonstrated the schism.
Duncan Mathenge, a Nyeri Town Member of Parliament, spoke out against the proposal to impose the housing fund on all workers on May 16.
He believes that the housing fund should be entirely optional.
“We could change the issue to a voluntary contribution to the housing fund for those who find it appealing,” Mathenge added.
