Health Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has strongly criticised opposition leaders for attacking President William Ruto’s affordable housing program, saying their stance is a betrayal of ordinary Kenyans who need better shelter.
Speaking in Laikipia on Sunday, October 12, Duale singled out Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka for declaring that he would scrap the affordable housing project if he becomes president in 2027.
According to Duale, such a promise is insensitive and unfair to millions of Kenyans who cannot afford homes like high-ranking politicians.
“All leaders in this country get a KSh30 million mortgage to buy a house. Many of them are living in Karen, yet they don’t want the president to build houses for middle-class citizens. That is the problem with such leaders,” Duale said.
He went on to mock Kalonzo’s remarks, adding, “I’ve seen Kalonzo claiming that his first executive order as president would be to scrap the housing levy, yet he lives in a very expensive home in Karen guarded by more than 20 dogs.”
Duale maintained that despite political pushback, President Ruto is determined to continue implementing housing and other social projects because they are supported by the constitution.
“Politicians are coming to tell people to reject the housing and healthcare projects, yet the constitution clearly says these rights must be guaranteed to Kenyans. Please don’t listen to such politicians,” he urged.
The CS also cautioned leaders against divisive and insulting politics, warning that such behaviour sets a bad example for younger generations who are closely watching the national discourse.
“We don’t want to build a country based on tribalism or insults. Our children are observing everything. When they see leaders abusing each other, it is shameful. We must practice politics that builds the nation,” Duale said.
In recent weeks, President Ruto has been emphasizing efforts to unite the country by reaching out to leaders across various regions, including Rift Valley, Western Kenya, and Mt. Kenya.
“I will continue engaging more leaders because I believe that when we come together, we attract God’s favour,” Ruto stated on Sunday, October 12.
However, some opposition voices argue that the president’s outreach could lead to political exclusion. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, now aligned with the opposition, accused Ruto of sidelining the Mt. Kenya region through covert political deals.
“If Kalenjins meet, it is called unity. When Mt Kenya leaders gather, it is branded tribalism. He thinks we are fools,” Gachagua said on Saturday, October 11.
The debate over the housing levy and political realignments continues to stir sharp reactions across the country, with both sides defending their positions ahead of the 2027 polls.
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