Hoteliers assure tourists of safety after Supreme court verdict

Tourists who are on holiday relax at the Swahili Beach Hotel along the South Coast beach hotels after the hotel was classified as a five star category jointly with the Leopard Beach Resort by the Tourism Regulatory Authority last week, August 14, 2016.[PHOTO BY GIDEON MAUNDU/STANDARD].

International holidaymakers have been assured of their safety in the country following the annulment of presidential elections on Friday.

Industry umbrella organisation Kenya Tourism Federation (KTF) said the decision by the Supreme Court to nullify the victory of President Uhuru Kenyatta does not have any adverse effects on tourists.

“Everything is running normally and we are still in peak season for the exotic safari circuit and look forward to welcoming more charter flights to the beach sector as winter approaches in Europe,” said KTF chairman Mohamed Hersi in a statement.

He said the judgement installed Kenya as the leading democratic nation in Africa and among the best globally.

Veteran hotelier Imtiaz Mirza said with the Supreme Court decision, Kenyans have proved to the world that politicians and institutions of law have stood the test of a peaceful nation.

“We have shown the world that we are truly a beacon of hope and an example to emulate for the rest of Africa. Let us go beyond narrow self-interest and be patriotic,’’ he said.

Newly established Tourism Professionals Association, through interim secretary Sam Ikwaye, said the tourism industry is prepared for the high season, particularly at the Coast, and remains optimistic that peace will prevail.