UDA Vice Chair resigns over govt’s stand on Housing Fund

United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Vice Chairperson Seth Panyako has resigned.

Panyako announced his resignation from the ruling party during a burial ceremony of former politician Joseph Hamisi held in Kakamega on Saturday, May 26, 2023.

While addressing mourners in Kakamega, Panyako who also served as the Secretary General of the Kenya National Union of Nurses (KNUN) stated that he was exiting the party due to his stand against the Housing Fund levy and the rise in the cost of living.

He asserted that he arrived at the decision after a brief meeting with his party leader President WilLiam Ruto.

"I talked to the President at 7 pm and it seemed that I could not continue with my role given my opposition to the housing fund and the high cost of living. Therefore, on behalf of my late friend. I want to announce that I have resigned from my position at UDA," he stated.

"I have decided to stick with Kenyans because, during the campaigns, we used to say kazi ni kazi, pesa mfukoni. Now they are saying, Kazi ni kazi, pesa kwa serikali," he added.

Prior to his resignation, Panyako had expressed open opposition to Ruto's proposals on Housing Fund levy and the recent proposals. He called on the Head of State to reconsider some policies and deliver as he promised Kenyans during the campaign period.

“We promised Kenyans that we shall lower the cost of doing business, we shall lower the eight per cent VAT on petroleum; today the VAT has been increased while the VAT for helicopters has been removed, how many Kenyans own helicopters?” he posed.

"I am wondering if I were to campaign for you (Ruto) in 2027, what will I be telling people? These are not the policies of UDA, these are not policies of Kenya kwanza because I was there, I campaigned for this government.” he added.