In a dramatic turn of events, National Assembly Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wa has issued a stern warning, threatening to withhold budget allocations to the judiciary, citing perceived obstruction of government initiatives. Speaking during the launch of the Kieni Kiandege – Mworoga – Maraa road in Meru County alongside President William Ruto, Ichung’wa criticized the judiciary for what he deems as “judicial overreach” in impeding the government’s efforts, particularly the Affordable Housing Project aimed at generating job opportunities for the youth.
Ichung’wa expressed concern over the judiciary allegedly being exploited by “rogue” individuals to disrupt government projects, accusing them of exceeding their constitutional mandate. He cautioned that Parliament might take action to limit the judiciary’s budget, specifically referring to the suspension of additional funds granted during their recent meeting with the president in light of the housing levy suspension.
The dispute stems from the Court of Appeal’s recent declaration of the Housing Levy as unconstitutional, pending the outcome of an ongoing appeal process. Justices Lydia Achode, John Mativo, and Mwaniki Gachoka emphasized the need to await the appeal’s resolution, citing potential repercussions if a stay were granted and the appellate court upholds the initial decision.
The tensions between the executive and the judiciary are underscored by the threat of budget withholding, exacerbating the ongoing dispute surrounding the Affordable Housing Project. President Ruto has vowed to appeal the court’s decision, adding fuel to the already heated situation.
The implications of this standoff are significant, as it not only raises questions about the separation of powers but also highlights the challenges in executing government initiatives in the face of judicial interventions. As the dispute unfolds, the nation watches closely, awaiting the resolution of the appeal and the potential impact on the Affordable Housing Project and other government initiatives aimed at youth employment.
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