A section of Kenyan youth have taken to the Nairobi Central Business District to protest in favor of the housing levy.
The convoy of peaceful demonstrators walked and drove through the streets with banners and posters, filled with messages on why the housing levy should not be scrapped.
Notably, the protestors, most of whom referred to themselves as slum dwellers, were led by the Jua Kali Contractors National Umbrella Body.
Additionally, despite the peaceful nature of the clamors, police surveillance followed the group.
On the reason for the demos, the protestors noted that they support the levy because it is giving them a lifeline.
A banner carried by one of the protestors read, “Tumechoka kulipia choo na bafu. We support the housing levy.”
This is loosely translated to,” We are tired of paying for bathroom services. We support the housing levy.”
Other banners read intonations of why the housing levy was beneficial to these demonstrators.
“Nyumba Bora. maisha Bora!” a banner carried by a protestor clamored.
This can be loosely translated to,” A better house, a better life.”
Additionally, the clamorers chanted ‘bado mapambano’, a clarion call used to indicate that the struggle continues.
The general assent by the protesters was that the future will be ruined if the housing levy is scrapped.
Housing Levy Blocked by High Court
Notably, in a landmark ruling by the High Court on 29th November 2023, the housing levy was declared unconstitutional.
“An order is granted prohibiting the respondent from collecting/ charging or otherwise charging on Affordable Housing Act based on section 84 of the Finance Act and all prayers on the consolidated petition not specifically granted,” Judge Majanja stated in the ruling.
This was after Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah amongst other petitioners challenged the levy in court.
In their argument, the petitioners noted that the Finance Bill contained amendments to several laws that had nothing to do with raising revenue.
Further, the 1.5 percent levy imposed on salaried workers had been a cause of heavy debate amongst Kenyans since its introduction through the Finance Bill 2023.
Also Read: CS Alice Wahome Warns Kenyans on Housing Levy Payment
However, the judges approved the government lawyers’ request for a 45-day stay of the order as they decide whether to appeal or make changes to the law to address the judges’ concerns.
This period is envisioned to end on January 10, 2024.
President Ruto Defends the Controversial Levy
In response to the court ruling, President William Ruto noted that he was still going to implement the Housing Levy despite obstacles in his way.
“I am telling you this time round I am implementing it and I am so determined because we must do it. Korea did it, Singapore, Malaysia and that is why they are ahead of us,” President Ruto said.
Further, he pointed out that the levy had been part of the Kenya Kwanza manifesto.
“This beautiful project was in the manifesto of Kenya Kwanza. The same housing project, complete with percentages of the levy was also in the Azimio manifesto,” the President noted then in defense of the controversial tax.
