Citizen TV journalist Ayub Abdikadir pinned down Tigania West Member of Parliament Dr John Mutunga during a heated debate on the controversial housing fund on Tuesday, May 30.
In a panel discussion with Azimio Secretary Fred Okang’o, Senator Joe Nyutu and Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka, Mutunga fumbled while answering questions posed by the journalist and the other guests leading to a heated and inaudible debate.
As the interview progressed, Mutunga stated that all the members of Kenyan Kwanza had clearly understood all matters pertaining to the proposed 3 per cent housing levy adding that they were completely in support.
According to him, more than 10 investors had already shown interest in the programme, a move that would offer great opportunities for Kenyans including employment.
“The multiplying effect will be so enormous. I am aware of more than 10 investors who have requested to invest in the housing fund programme,” Mutunga stated.
However, when Abdikadir asked further questions concerning how the money collected would be spent and saved, Mutunga found himself between a rock and a hard place.
Ayub Abdikadir: May I ask you then according to Principal Secretary Charles Hinga this money will not go to the consolidated fund, where will it go?
John Mutunga: This money will be held in a trust through…a certain body that is going to be formed.
Ayub Abdikadir: Which body?
John Mutunga: ...There will be a trustee…a trustee will be found.
Ayub Abdikadir: Who will be the trustee? Any issue that involves the hard-earned money of the Kenyan people needs clarity so when is that trustee going to be formed?
John Mutunga: ...Before the fund is formed….We have not even concluded the discussion... The budget has not been passed. Has the budget been passed?
Senator Onyonka: Where are the savings of the hustler fund, where are they kept?
Further, Mutunga was questioned over elaborate plans by the government to continue providing employment opportunities for Kenyans even after the project was complete.
“What happens to Kenyans contracted to work on the programme after it is done? Do they become jobless?" Ayub asked.
Mutunga stated that because the programme will continue over many years, those contracted for different jobs in the programme will have nothing to worry about.
He added that the government was also working on other follow-up projects and other departments that will also be able to accommodate the employees.
