Ruto and Sifuna Escalate War of Words Over Housing Project
President William Ruto has hit back at Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna in a heated exchange centered on the Affordable Housing Programme
The verbal sparring intensified after Sifuna used a light-hearted but pointed chicken analogy to question the suitability of high-rise units for certain communities. Ruto dismissed the criticism as lacking sense during a meeting at State House.
Sifuna had earlier argued on radio that multi-storey buildings in places like Funyula might not align with local lifestyles, joking that residents' chickens could not reach upper floors. He suggested resources could instead support hospitals and schools. The remarks sparked immediate backlash and set the stage for the president’s strong rebuttal.
In response, Ruto questioned the logic behind opposing a programme designed to provide decent homes, asking if critics viewed citizens as foolish. He described such views as shortsighted and accused opponents of preferring to keep people in poverty rather than supporting transformative initiatives. The exchange highlights deep divisions over the flagship project.
This latest feud underscores ongoing political tensions as the government pushes forward with its housing agenda amid criticism from opposition figures. While supporters hail the programme as a step toward better living standards, detractors continue to raise concerns about design, location, and priorities. The war of words is likely to fuel further debate in the run-up to future elections
