Ruto: 'No brains' politics won't derail housing plan

President William Ruto At State House during launch of the National Equipment Service Project in healthcare service on August 7, 2025. [PSC]

President William Ruto has said no amount of criticism will derail his administration’s Affordable Housing Program, which he insists is creating jobs and driving development.

Speaking on Sunday in Limuru, Kiambu, during an inspection of a housing project, Ruto dismissed claims the initiative is a waste of resources or failing to deliver employment. He argued that such criticism comes from leaders without a vision for the country.

“Kenya will not be changed by empty rhetoric, hate, mayhem or tribalism. This country will be changed by development programmes like this affordable housing project, which will help the youth and change their lives,” Ruto noted.

The president accused rivals of planning to end the housing scheme if they win power and questioned whether they have a credible alternative for creating jobs.

“Those people are saying they will discontinue the housing programme when they come to power. This programme has employed thousands of youths. Are they really progressive leaders? Do they have any plan for you?” Ruto asked.

He urged opponents to stop “blackmail and threats” and warned Kenyans not to be  swayed by leaders advancing tribal or divisive politics.

“Some people have no agenda, no plan, no vision. The plan to change Kenya cannot be stopped by people who have no brains. They cannot stop us from transforming our nation,” Ruto stated.

The president said he visited the Limuru site to confirm progress after some critics claimed work had stalled. He reported that more than 500 young people were employed at the site and 1,320 others were engaged in similar projects nationwide.

“I have ordered the Ministry of Housing that in the next two to three months, we must increase the number of youths in the Affordable Housing Program to 1,640. This will allow more young people to get jobs, improve themselves and help us fight the vices that harm our country,” he explained.

He also announced plans to construct 28 modern markets across the country with improved facilities such as clean water, electricity and proper sanitation.