Kiambu MP Machua Waithaka has petitioned the National Assembly to compel the government to explain prolonged delays in the construction of two modern markets and students’ hostels at Kiambu National Polytechnic, warning that the stalled projects are denying traders, students and residents the benefits they were meant to deliver.
Speaking after formally requesting a statement in the House, Mr Waithaka said he wants the Ministry responsible for the projects to account for their implementation status, funding, completion timelines and the reasons behind the delays.
The legislator told Parliament that the projects — Ting’ang’a Market, Kangangi Market and the students’ hostels at Kiambu National Polytechnic — were expected to spur economic growth, improve trading conditions and expand accommodation for students, but have instead become a source of growing frustration among residents.
Under Standing Order 44(2)(c), Mr Waithaka requested a statement from the Chairperson of the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works.
“The projects are critical in creating business opportunities for traders, improving student accommodation and stimulating the local economy. Unfortunately, they have experienced significant delays, causing concern among residents,” Mr Waithaka said.
According to the request tabled before the House, construction of Ting’ang’a Market commenced in February 2024, while Kangangi Market broke ground in October 2025 under the National Government’s market modernisation programme. Construction of students’ hostels at Kiambu National Polytechnic was also initiated to address accommodation shortages and improve the institution’s learning environment.
Mr Waithaka said the facilities were expected to provide modern trading spaces, create employment opportunities and strengthen public infrastructure within Kiambu Constituency.
However, he told Parliament that progress on the projects has slowed considerably and, in some cases, appears to have stalled altogether despite substantial public investment.
The MP wants the committee to provide a comprehensive report detailing the current implementation status of each project, expected completion dates, total approved project costs, funds released and payments made to contractors.
He also demanded an explanation for the delays and sought assurances that the responsible ministry has put in place measures to ensure the projects are completed without further postponement.
“The people of Kiambu Constituency deserve to know why these projects have delayed and when they will finally be completed,” he said.
Mr Waithaka reiterated that he would continue pushing for accountability to ensure every development project promised to Kiambu residents is delivered as planned.
The statement request now awaits a formal response from the Departmental Committee on Housing, Urban Planning and Public Works, which is expected to seek explanations from the relevant ministry before reporting back to the National Assembly.
The ministry had not publicly responded to the concerns by the time of publication. Its response to Parliament is expected to clarify the status of the projects, expenditure of public funds and revised completion timelines.
