Government Fires Back at Gachagua After Plea to Tourists and Investors: ‘Kenya Is Safe, Open for Business’
The Kenyan government has hit back at Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua after he urged tourists and foreign investors to stay away from the country, insisting that Kenya remains stable, secure and fully open for business despite heightened political tensions.
Government Spokesperson Isaac Mwaura on Monday dismissed Gachagua’s remarks as damaging and irresponsible, warning that calls discouraging travel and investment risk hurting one of Kenya’s most important economic lifelines.
Speaking during a press briefing, Mwaura said Kenya continues to enjoy political stability and remains one of Africa’s leading destinations for tourism, trade and investment, urging leaders to protect the country’s international reputation instead of making statements that could undermine investor confidence.
“Kenya remains a preferred destination for tourism, trade and investment, with our growing tourism sector, strong diplomatic standing and continued economic expansion reflecting the confidence the world has in our country,” Mwaura said.
He added that attempts to discourage tourists and investors from visiting Kenya threaten jobs, economic growth and livelihoods that depend on the tourism and investment sectors.
Gachagua’s Remarks Spark Political Storm
The government’s response came just a day after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua urged international tourists to postpone travel to Kenya and advised investors to suspend new investments until next year, claiming the country was no longer safe due to worsening insecurity.
Speaking during a church service at ACK St Thomas Cathedral in Kerugoya, Gachagua blamed the government for what he described as deteriorating security, urging foreigners to wait until after the 2027 General Election before considering Kenya as a destination for travel or business.
The DCP leader made the remarks shortly after celebrating his party’s victory in the Ol Kalou parliamentary by-election, which he portrayed as a political showdown between President William Ruto and the Mt Kenya region.
His comments immediately ignited fierce debate, with critics accusing him of risking Kenya’s economic interests while supporters argued he was highlighting genuine concerns over governance and security.
Government Defends Kenya’s Economy
In defending the country’s economic outlook, Mwaura cited recent official data showing Kenya’s economy expanded by 5.3 percent during the first quarter of 2026, driven by growth across manufacturing, agriculture, construction and the services sector.
According to the government, the figures demonstrate continued confidence in Kenya’s economy despite ongoing political contestation.
Mwaura further appealed for national unity, peaceful dialogue and responsible leadership, saying Kenya’s continued progress depends on protecting stable institutions and maintaining a favourable environment for local and foreign investment.
He maintained that political disagreements should not be used to damage Kenya’s international image, insisting the country remains safe, welcoming and attractive to visitors and investors alike.
The exchange marks the latest escalation in the political battle between President William Ruto’s administration and Gachagua, with both sides increasingly taking their rivalry beyond domestic politics and into issues touching on Kenya’s global reputation and economic outlook.
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