Fix Economy First Then Provide Houses to Kenyans, Muslim Clergy Tells Government

A section of Muslim leaders in the North Rift region has termed plans by the government to introduce a housing levy as good but which has come at the wrong time.

Region’s Council of Imams and Preachers of Kenya (CIPK) chairperson Sheikh Abubakar Bini notes that as much as it is good to ensure every Kenyan lives in a decent house, there are more urgent issues that the government should be focusing on.

He named fixing the economy as a more pressing matter, compared to affordable housing.

“Plan to provide houses to Kenyans is good as every person has a right to live in a decent place but the timing is not right,” Sheikh Bini said on Thursday.

“Kenyans are currently struggling due to tough economic times and it would be good if the government first focused on addressing the high cost of living, then shift focus to affordable housing later,” he added.

The government has proposed a three per cent deduction on every Kenyan’s salary to finance the Affordable Housing Program.

Intrest of Kenyans

However, the proposal contained in the Finance Bill has been opposed by a section of political leaders, mostly allied with the Azimio One Kenya Coalition.

With the Bill coming up for a second reading before the National Assembly, the Muslim clergy now wants Members of Parliament to ensure debate it from the common mwananchi’s interest.

“It is good to get people out of the slums but is it the right time?” asked the CIPK North Rift chairperson.

“Kenyans will not get an opportunity to vote on the matter and whatever the MPs decide should be in the interest of Kenyans. They should push aside their personal and political interests and make a decision that will be of benefit to citizens,” he added.

Sheikh Bini further insists a decision on the controversial Finance Bill must be guided by the need to lower the cost of living.