Principal Secretary for Housing and Urban Development Charles Hinga has cautioned politicians against politicising the government’s Affordable Housing Programme, assuring Kenyans that homeowners under the initiative have their rights fully protected by law and the Constitution.

Speaking in Nairobi on Friday, June 19, 2026, Hinga expressed concern over what he termed ‘shifting political positions’ by some leaders who initially supported the housing programme but are now discouraging Kenyans from participating in it.

“If there is something that really shocks me, it’s our politicians. Today, they stand for something; tomorrow, they don’t stand, just because they changed, maybe their political formation,” Hinga said.

The PS appeared to take issue with politicians who previously championed the Affordable Housing Programme as a solution to improve living conditions for Kenyans residing in informal settlements but have since turned against the project.

“So today there was somebody who was pro-housing, and they talked about who has a problem with dignifying people who are in the slums. And then today they’re busy telling you not to get into those houses, because when we come into government, we’re going to take away those houses,” he said.

“How do you take away houses? This is not a favour you’re doing to people,” he added.

The Housing PS emphasised that beneficiaries of the programme become legitimate homeowners with legally protected property rights once they acquire the houses.

“These people here are homeowners, and they’re homeowners by right,” Hinga said.

Hinga calls for registration

He urged Kenyans interested in the Affordable Housing Programme to register and participate without fear, assuring them that their investments and ownership would remain secure regardless of political changes.

“So any Kenyan who wants to participate in this programme for housing, please do it confidently. There is nobody who will take away that, because if there is anything that is well protected in law, and in our Constitution, it’s a right to own,” he added.

The Affordable Housing Programme remains one of the flagship projects of President William Ruto’s administration, aimed at increasing access to decent and affordable housing while creating employment opportunities in the construction sector.

The PS reiterated that the programme is anchored in law and serves the interests of ordinary Kenyans seeking homeownership, urging leaders to avoid spreading misinformation that could discourage potential beneficiaries.