HOUSING LEVY SHOULD BE OPTIONAL – GOVERNOR BARASA

Kakamega County Governor H.E FCPA Fernandes Barasa has said a savings plan initiated by any institution should be optional and not mandatory as advanced by the National Government on the three percent deduction meant for the housing levy.

Speaking at the burial of the late Anglican Church of Kenya Bishop Beneah Salala in Matungu Sub-County on Friday, the Governor implored the Government to make the plan voluntary to allow willing citizens make the savings saying the proposals will not spur economic growth as alluded by the National Government.

The Governor who accompanied by his deputy H.E Ayub Savula was reacting to a statement by Housing Principal Secretary Charles Hinga that the proposed levy contribution will be mandatory.

Governor Barasa further faulted Senators for shooting down the proposed revenue allocation Bill, criticising Kakamega Senator Dr Boni Khalwale who voted against the Bill that would have seen Counties receive Ksh 407 Billion.

He reminded Dr Khalwale that Kakamega residents voted for him to defend devolution at the Senate and not vote along party lines during such momentous occasions.

The Legislators passed the Division of Revenue Bill, 2023 without amendments allocating devolved units Ksh 385 Billion in the next Financial Year.