Presidential Aspirant Dr. Fred Matiang’i has distanced himself from remarks made by DCP Party Leader Rigathi Gachagua, in which he called upon international tourists and prospective investors to suspect their visits and investments in Kenya until after the 2027 General Election.
In a statement, Dr.Matiang’i’s Jubilee Party says that political competition should never come at the expense of Kenya’s economy or the livelihoods of Kenyans.
According to the party, it fully appreciates the frastruations regarding the state of governance, insecurity and the growing concerns over the use of violence and criminal elements in Kenya’s politics. However, the party insists that any communication made in pursuit of political change must equally safeguard the national interest.
“As Jubilee Party, we believe that while leaders have every right to speak out on the challenges facing our country, we all have a shared responsibility to protect Kenya’s image, support key sectors such as tourism and investment, and put the national interest first,” the statement, signed by Secretary-General Moitalel Ole Kenta, says.
Tourism remains one of Kenya’s largest foreign exchange earner, supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs across hotels, transport, tour operators, cultural enterprises, conservation initiatives, agriculture and small businesses. Likewise, investment by foreigners fuels industrial growth, creates employment opportunities for youth, expand innovation, and strengthens the economy.
“The people who bear the greatest cost of declining tourist arrivals or reduced investment are not those in positions of political authority. It is the hotel worker in Diani, the tour guide in Maasai Mara, the artisan in Mombasa, the farmer supplying fresh produce to hospitality establishments, the taxi operator, the young entrepreneur, and the thousands of families whose daily incomes depend on a vibrant economy,” the party argues.
Consequently, Jubilee Party has issued a rallying call, assuring that Kenya remains a nation of immense opportunity, extraordinary natural beauty, resilient institutions, and warm, welcoming people.
“Our differences with the current administration are political and policy based. They should never diminish confidence in the Republic of Kenya itself or the immense potential of its people.”
The party has also encouraged all visitors, investors, development partners, and friends of Kenya to continue engaging with the country.
At the same time, Jubilee has urged the Government to recognize that restoring investor confidence cannot be achieved through public relations alone. “It requires genuine commitment to the rule of law, protection of life and property, respect for constitutional rights, political tolerance, and an end to violence and intimidation in our public affairs. A stable political environment is the strongest foundation for sustained economic growth.”
