Jubilee Party has cautioned political leaders against making public statements that could dent Kenya's tourism industry and scare away investors, saying the country's economy should not become a casualty of political competition. The party warned that remarks likely to discourage visitors or foreign investment could end up hurting millions of Kenyans who rely on tourism, hospitality, transport and other sectors for their daily livelihoods.
The party's statement comes after former Deputy President and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua urged international tourists and foreign investors to put off visiting or investing in Kenya until after the next General Election. Gachagua cited insecurity and what he described as growing political violence.
In a statement issued on Monday, Jubilee Secretary-General Moitalel Ole Kenta said the party understood the concerns being raised over the country's governance, security, shrinking democratic space and the increasing use of criminal gangs in politics. However, he said leaders must ensure that their pursuit of political change does not damage Kenya's economic interests.
"While we fully appreciate the frustrations that continue to be expressed regarding the state of governance, insecurity, the shrinking democratic space and the growing concerns over the use of violence and criminal elements in our politics, we believe that any communication made in pursuit of political change must equally safeguard the national interest," the statement read.
Jubilee said it has consistently spoken against the use of hired goons in politics and has repeatedly urged the government to guarantee public safety, protect constitutional freedoms and restore confidence in law enforcement.
At the same time, the party warned that appeals discouraging tourism or foreign investment could have far-reaching effects on ordinary citizens.
"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 party said.
Jubilee noted that tourism remains one of Kenya's biggest sources of foreign exchange, supporting thousands of jobs in hotels, transport, wildlife conservation, agriculture, tour operations and small businesses. It added that foreign investment also plays a key role in creating jobs, supporting industries and driving innovation.
"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 statement added.
The party maintained that Kenya remains "a nation of immense opportunity, extraordinary natural beauty, resilient institutions, and warm, welcoming people," saying political disagreements with the current administration should not erode confidence in the country.
Jubilee also challenged the government to address the issues affecting investor confidence, saying restoring trust requires more than public messaging.
"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," it said.
The party's position mirrors that of the Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF), which also dismissed Gachagua's appeal to tourists and investors. The federation insisted Kenya remains safe for visitors and warned that political remarks capable of damaging the country's tourism image could carry serious economic consequences.
Jubilee concluded by urging both the government and the opposition to exercise restraint in their public statements and place the country's economic interests above political differences.
"Kenya is bigger than any political party, any individual, or any election cycle. Even as we vigorously compete for leadership and advocate for change, let us remain united in protecting the economic interests of our people and preserving the dignity and reputation of our country," the party urged.