The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Narok Senator Ledama Olekina has responded to the recent court ruling on the Housing levy, where the Court of Appeal declined to suspend orders preventing the state from deducting the levy from Kenyans.
“In our country, we are governed by the rule of law. We have a Constitution that establishes three branches of government. Therefore, each arm of the government has its specific roles,” Olekina remarked.
“I have heard the President’s statement. It is imperative that we uphold the rule of law. The public opposes the affordable housing initiative because they believe the land is free, yet deductions are being made from our incomes.”
Olekina made these comments during an interview on Citizen TV.
He further noted that public participation is often disregarded, with people’s opinions not taken into account. He emphasized that the issue is not solely about providing affordable housing but also about generating business for commercial interests.
On Friday, the Court of Appeal declined to suspend orders preventing the state from deducting housing levies from Kenyans. Justices Lydia Achode, John Mativo, and Gatembu Kairu reasoned that public interest favored awaiting the appeal’s determination.
“The stay sought is not granted at this stage because, should we affirm the challenged decision, irreversible decisions may have been made under the challenged laws,” they stated.
“It is in the public interest to first hear the appeals.”
Consequently, the housing levy remained suspended as per the High Court’s ruling. However, President William Ruto announced plans to appeal the decision. He defended the housing program, asserting its significance in creating employment opportunities for unemployed Kenyans.
“We will appeal the decision and enact the necessary legislation to realize our goal of creating employment for unemployed youth through housing projects,” the President affirmed.
“This administration is the first in Kenya’s history to have a clear and actionable plan for generating jobs for millions of young Kenyans.”
