Wetang’ula defends Ruto’s call for foreign traders to regularise operations

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has defended President William Ruto's call for foreign nationals residing and conducting business in Kenya to regularize their status. Wetang'ula maintains that the directive is aimed at enforcing existing laws and safeguarding opportunities for local entrepreneurs. During a bodaboda empowerment drive in Trans Nzoia County, Wetang'ula clarified that Kenya continues to welcome visitors and investors from Africa, including East African Community members.

He emphasized that the aim is to ensure authorities are aware of the presence and purpose of individuals entering the country. Wetang'ula expressed concern over foreigners engaging in small-scale trading activities that could be carried out by Kenyan citizens. He questioned the classification of such foreigners as investors. The Speaker argued that certain opportunities should be preserved for Kenyan traders and entrepreneurs, especially those operating small businesses.

Wetang'ula dismissed fears of Kenya becoming hostile to other Africans, pointing to President Ruto's decision to allow visa-free entry for Africans. He also cited the opposition's earlier resistance to the President's call for foreigners with informal jobs or small businesses to regularize their status. Mugabe, the MP for Likuyani, echoed Wetang'ula's stance, stating that the President's remarks were misinterpreted by the opposition.

He highlighted that the administration is concerned about foreigners engaging in petty trade without the necessary licenses. Both Wetang'ula and Mugabe called for stricter monitoring of individuals entering Kenya, particularly through unofficial routes, citing national security and immigration management as reasons. They emphasized the need for fair and consistent enforcement of immigration, work permit, and business licensing regulations.

The comments come amidst ongoing discussions about the role of foreign nationals in Kenya's informal economy, with concerns over the competition for jobs and small-business opportunities between local and foreign businesses.