Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has for the second time urged foreign tourists and investors to delay travelling to Kenya, claiming the country is unsafe due to the continued presence of armed ‘goons’ that he alleged have not been brought under control.

Speaking at a church service on Sunday, July 26, 2026, Gachagua said foreigners should remain in their home countries until the government demonstrates it has restored security.

“Wazungu wanauliza, ‘Are we safe?’ I am telling foreigners, ‘You are not safe in this country.’ Stay in your country for now. Sisi hatuwezi toka hapa, sisi tutagangana hapa polepole, because hatuna pahali pa kwenda,” he said.

Why are we still seeing goons?

The former deputy president questioned President William Ruto’s earlier assertions that criminal gangs had been dealt with, arguing that those responsible for violence were still operating freely.

“Ruto amesema goons imekwisha. Tangu aseme, kuna mtu ameshikwa? The goons are still around. They are hooded, and they are having weapons,” he said.

Gachagua also challenged the government to issue a formal assurance to the international community that such groups would no longer be allowed to operate.

In his remarks, he addressed a senior government official to publicly guarantee the safety of visitors and investors.

“Can you issue a statement, a very categorical statement, to the international community confirming that there will be no goons in this country going forward? Don’t just talk in public rallies. Issue a statement to the international community that you have dealt with goons and goons will not be allowed again to harass people in this country,” he said.

Effect of poor security situation

Gachagua maintained that the prevailing security situation had undermined confidence in Kenya as a destination for tourism and investment.

“The country is not safe. It’s not safe for Kenyans, it’s not safe for foreigners, it’s not safe for tourists, it’s not safe for investors. That is the truth,” he said.

His remarks come amid heightened political tensions and continued exchanges between the opposition and the Kenya Kwanza administration over allegations of insecurity and the use of armed groups during protests.

The government has repeatedly denied claims that it sponsors or protects criminal gangs, insisting that security agencies are committed to maintaining law and order across the country.

Tourism and foreign direct investment remain key pillars of Kenya’s economy, with the government continuing to market the country as a safe destination for international visitors and business. Gachagua’s latest comments are likely to intensify political debate over security and Kenya’s image abroad.