The Jubilee Party has sharply responded to recent remarks by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, cautioning that calls discouraging tourists and investors from visiting Kenya could damage the country’s economy and global reputation.
In a press statement dated July 20, 2026, and signed by Secretary General MoitaleL Ole Kenta, the party said it had taken note of statements urging international tourists and prospective investors to suspend visits to Kenya until after the next General Election.
The party acknowledged underlying concerns about insecurity and governance but warned that such public pronouncements carry serious economic consequences.
“Calls which may be interpreted as discouraging tourism or foreign investment risk creating unintended consequences for millions of ordinary Kenyans whose livelihoods depend directly on these sectors,” the statement read.
The Jubilee Party emphasized that tourism remains one of Kenya’s leading foreign exchange earners, supporting jobs across multiple sectors including hospitality, transport, conservation, and small-scale enterprises.
It noted that any decline in tourist arrivals would disproportionately affect workers such as hotel staff in coastal regions, tour guides in wildlife conservancies, and small business operators who rely on visitor spending.
While distancing itself from Gachagua’s position, the party maintained that concerns about insecurity, political violence, and shrinking democratic space remain valid and require urgent government intervention.
It reiterated its call for authorities to guarantee public safety, uphold constitutional freedoms, and restore confidence in law enforcement institutions.
At the same time, Jubilee urged restraint among political leaders, stressing that public statements influence investor confidence and shape international perceptions about Kenya.
“Our words carry weight. They shape perceptions, influence markets, affect livelihoods, and ultimately determine how the world views our nation,” the party stated.
The party further encouraged tourists, investors, and development partners to continue engaging with Kenya, describing the country as a nation of “immense opportunity, extraordinary natural beauty, and resilient institutions.”
Jubilee also challenged the government to move beyond public relations efforts and instead address structural issues affecting investor confidence, including rule of law, protection of property, and political tolerance.
The response comes amid growing political tensions, with leaders increasingly clashing over the state of security and governance. Jubilee concluded by urging unity across the political divide, warning that economic stability should not be undermined by partisan interests.
“Kenya is bigger than any political party or election cycle,” the statement said, calling for collective responsibility in safeguarding the country’s economic future.