The National Assembly Majority Whip Sylvanus Osoro on Monday, May 29, changed his tune over President Willian Ruto’s housing levy.
The South Mugirango Member of Parliament (MP) recanted his earlier statement insisting that the bill would be passed by Parliament without any amendments.
While appearing on Citizen TV’s Daybreak show, the MP revealed that the National Assembly would make changes to the controversial bill after collecting views from stakeholders.
"It is true that I said the bill would be passed without amendments. From where I sit as a majority whip, my work is to push for the business of the house,” the MP admitted.
He explained that it was agreed upon after consideration that changes would be made to the proposal in line with the public views.
“When I speak in the National Assembly, I speak on behalf of the government. The Housing Bill is a well thought idea but we are still collecting views from all stakeholders.
“The bill is not cast in stone and so we will amend it based on the proposals raised by stakeholders,” he stated.
Osoro further explained that the government's 3 per cent housing levy and new taxes contained in the Finance Bill 2023 was a proposal open for scrutiny.
“That is why there is a process of public participation. We will sit down and review and amend where possible,” he assured Kenyans.
Osoro's change of heart came a day after President William Ruto affirmed that his administration would go forward with implementing the affordable housing program where salaried Kenyans will be deducted 3 per cent of their monthly earnings.
Speaking during a thanksgiving ceremony in Busia County, Ruto stated that the bill was aimed at bridging the gap between the poor and the rich.
His remarks were endorsed by the Jua Kali sector and Nairobi Market Traders Association on Sunday, May 28.
“We will continue contributing to the housing fund and together as a sector, we will change the face of housing in Kenya.
“Those opposing the Housing Fund are issuing statements from their homes in Lavington, Kileleshwa and Karen,” they stated while supporting the housing levy.