Nairobi Governor Sakaja Johnson has come out strongly against the Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU) and political leaders criticizing the government’s affordable housing initiative, accusing them of misleading the public and ignoring the needs of ordinary Kenyans.

Speaking during a church service at the Church of Christ in Africa in Nairobi, where he accompanied President William Ruto, Sakaja defended the housing levy and the construction of markets within the housing program.

“It is unbelievable that COTU can say building markets through the housing levy is misguided. If an affordable housing project is completed and a market is built nearby, what’s the problem? Families living in those houses need household supplies from those markets. Those fighting this project—shame on you!” Sakaja said.

Sakaja dismissed claims that the housing projects are unnecessary, arguing that such opposition mostly comes from leaders who are already enjoying a life of luxury.

“We’ve heard leaders say, ‘We didn’t ask the president to build houses.’ But those houses aren’t being built for you—you live in mansions with seven toilets! Let others benefit. What are you offering?” he added.

The Governor also urged political leaders to end divisive rhetoric and instead focus on humility and service to the people.

“Leaders must understand that the positions we hold are not by our own power, but by God’s will,” he said. “Stop inciting the public. We found this country; we must leave it better than we found it.”

Governor Sakaja accompanied President William Ruto and other leaders to a church service in Nairobi.