Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua has urged foreign tourists and international investors to stay away from Kenya until next year, citing severe security concerns and state-sponsored political violence.
The remarks, delivered during a Sunday church service at ACK St. Thomas Cathedral in Kerugoya, Kirinyaga County, have sparked sharp criticism from government representatives and tourism leaders.
Gachagua warned potential visitors that the East African nation has become increasingly volatile due to government inaction against armed groups and police misconduct.
He singled out recent violence during the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election as evidence of institutional breakdown, asserting that state institutions no longer guarantee personal safety or corporate asset protection.
“Our tourists are not safe in our country. There are too many goons,” Gachagua said during his address. “Because we do not want to destroy tourism in this country, I want to call upon tourists to suspend their visit to Kenya until next year. Investors should keep away from Kenya until next year.”
The former Deputy President accused the administration of deploying masked operatives to silence political opponents. He also highlighted an incident in Nairobi where foreign investors were reportedly robbed of valuables. Gachagua questioned where citizens and visitors should seek recourse when security officers themselves are implicated in unlawful activities.
His statements triggered immediate resistance from tourism officials and political allies. The Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) rejected the warnings, assuring international travel markets that major destinations remain secure.
Political leaders, including representatives from the Jubilee Party, cautioned that damaging vital national sectors harms ordinary hospitality workers and economic stability rather than resolving political disputes.
Tourism remains a foundational pillar of the Kenyan economy, generating nearly Sh1.7 trillion annually and sustaining over two million direct and indirect livelihoods.
Industry representatives warned that political rhetoric undermining traveler confidence could jeopardize national economic recovery efforts following recent global disruptions.
The dispute highlights growing political tensions ahead of the 2027 General Election. As opposition figures intensify their critique of state governance, industry leaders continue to appeal for political restraint to safeguard essential foreign revenue streams.
