By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, July 20, 2026 - A rare public disagreement has emerged within the opposition after the Jubilee Party distanced itself from Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua's appeal for tourists and foreign investors to avoid Kenya over insecurity concerns.
The statement places Jubilee, led by former President Uhuru Kenyatta, at odds with its United Opposition ally after Gachagua urged visitors and investors to postpone travel and investment in Kenya until next year, saying the country had become unsafe.
Speaking on Sunday during a church service at ACK St Thomas Cathedral in Kerugoya, Kirinyaga County, the former Deputy President blamed rising insecurity on the Kenya Kwanza administration.
"Our tourists are not safe in our country. There are too many goons. Tourists should suspend their visits until next year," Gachagua said.
He added: "Investors should keep away from Kenya. We are telling investors to stay away until next year."
However, in a statement issued on Monday, Jubilee cautioned that while criticism of the government was legitimate, political leaders should avoid statements that could undermine Kenya's economy and international reputation.
Without naming Gachagua directly, Jubilee said calls that could be interpreted as discouraging tourism or foreign investment risked hurting millions of Kenyans whose livelihoods depend on the two sectors.
"We fully appreciate the frustrations regarding governance, insecurity, shrinking democratic space and the use of violence in politics. However, communication made in pursuit of political change must equally safeguard the national interest," the statement signed by Secretary-General Motailel Ole Kenta said.
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The party noted that tourism remains one of Kenya's biggest foreign exchange earners while foreign investment drives economic growth, job creation and innovation.
It warned that any decline in tourist arrivals or investment would hurt ordinary Kenyans, including hotel workers, tour guides, transport operators, farmers, artisans and small businesses.
Jubilee also challenged the government to address concerns over insecurity, constitutional freedoms and investor confidence, saying restoring trust required more than public relations campaigns.
"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," the party said.
The statement marks one of the clearest public policy differences within the United Opposition, whose constituent parties have largely presented a united front against President William Ruto's administration.
Jubilee concluded by urging leaders across the political divide to exercise restraint in public discourse, saying political competition should not come at the expense of Kenya's economic interests and global reputation.