Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale has fired back at former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua over his recent criticism of the Affordable Housing Programme (AHP).
In a strongly worded statement, Duale condemned Gachagua’s opposition to the initiative, pointing out the inconsistency in his stance. He even shared an old video clip where Gachagua had once praised the very same program.
“It is disheartening to see individuals who once championed this very program now standing in opposition to it,” Duale remarked.
He argued that those opposing the AHP are not only hindering the country’s progress but also depriving many Kenyans of the opportunity to lead better lives.
“Their actions reveal a blatant disregard for the welfare of the very people they claim to represent,” he added, calling such opposition a betrayal of public trust.
Duale vowed that the government would not remain silent in the face of such criticism, promising to hold detractors accountable for attempting to obstruct what he described as a “beacon of hope” for millions of Kenyans.
“The time for political games is over; the people’s needs must come first,” Duale declared, reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to the AHP.
He urged all leaders, whether in or out of government, to support initiatives that are aimed at the greater good of the nation, rather than using them for political leverage. Duale emphasized that the AHP is more than just about housing—it’s about creating jobs and fostering economic growth for the nation.
“It is a fundamental right for every Kenyan to have a roof over their head and the chance to earn a livelihood,” he said.
Meanwhile, Gachagua has continued to challenge the government’s projects, positioning himself as a voice for the people following his removal from office.
Speaking on Monday during the launch of the DAP-K headquarters in Nairobi, Gachagua claimed that the Affordable Housing Programme was riddled with corruption and primarily benefitted a select few individuals.
“I believed the project was about job creation until it came to my attention that it has nothing to do with that,” he asserted.
Gachagua went on to promise that once a new government takes office, the housing levy would be scrapped in order to “restore the dignity of workers’ payslips.”
Article By Suzy Nyongesa.