Ruto mocks Sifuna’s chicken argument on housing

Nairobi, Kenya – President William Ruto responded to criticism of his Affordable Housing Programme by mocking the idea that chickens cannot reach the 12th floor of high-rise buildings. Speaking to the Teso community in Eldoret, Ruto dismissed the notion as foolish and suggested the chickens could be transported on an elevator. The President's remarks appeared to be directed at Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna, who has previously questioned whether high-rise housing is suitable for communities where residents keep chickens.

"Another one even says that his biggest reason for opposing affordable housing is that a chicken cannot climb to the 12th floor," Ruto said, eliciting laughter from the audience. The President questioned the logic behind such thinking and raised concerns about how opposition figures would justify abolishing the housing programme if it were proposed.

Ruto defended the programme's job creation efforts and argued that the mandatory housing levy, which deducts 1.5% from workers' pay, has been offset by a 10% salary increase. He also accused his opponents of being sponsored to oppose his administration, claiming they were paid to do so. Ruto challenged his critics to present alternative plans for agriculture, healthcare, and employment, urging voters to demand concrete proposals from those seeking their support ahead of the 2027 General Election.