Kenyans largely oppose President Ruto's visa-free announcement, poll reveals

According to the poll results posted across major social platforms including FaceBook, X, and Instagram, about 72.8 percent voted against having a visa-free nation while 27.2 percent supported it.

On X, formerly Twitter, out of the total 3,078 participants who had voted as of 4 pm, over 2200 people said the move was ill-advised and would bring more harm to the country than good.

Most people who were against the president’s decision said it would pose security threats to the country since many people would be flocking in and criminals may see it as a loophole.

Those in support of the move said it would bolster diplomatic ties with other nations which would in turn increase the country’s revenues and taxes due to more investors coming into the country.

Others called on the president to limit the Visa-Free directive to only the African continent. Some netizens however remained skeptical that Africans alone would not be an adequate target market for Kenyan products insisting the international market is still critical.

Some faulted the decision for lack of public participation instead urging the head of state to first ensure other nations adopt the visa-free move in favour of Kenyans.

Here are some of the interesting reactions from online users across the platforms.

Facebook

“I don't ...it's a threat to our national security, integrity, reputations, education, business and norms. What criteria will the country use to know the visitors' intention and how their coming will be a benefit that they have failed to do so in their country?” Stanley Mathilda said.

“Majority are criminals doing dirty business and are running away from their country..in fact, it has more harm than good...before next Jamhuri, Kenya will be in a mess more than Haiti...let our president reconsider his decision.”

“Yes I support 100%, we need to open up our country, a country with good rules and regulations will grow faster if new minds (visitors) invest in that country,” A user Enock Washi said.

“It's always a free visa Nation only it has been waiting for clarification from him the likes of Burudians and Ugandans do come in Kenya freely,” Jeff Barasa stated.

“I repeat, you can't cage your own chickens but allow your neighbor's chicken to have a free visit to your compound. Charity must begin at home where he should have declared free movement out of Kenya. Foreigners will be attacked, kidnapped and crime will be out of control,” Nyamu Ya Yeu noted.

“We were not consulted. It is upon him. Let him take credit and be responsible for any harm that will result from his decision,” Mtao Mtaani said.

X

“We all know the EU is fed up with the Migrant crisis, they plan to flush out all the migrants, guess where they'll be taken to? Abruzzi asked 

“It should be visa-free for foreigners who add value to our economy such as investors. There should be screening. Otherwise, Kenya will be rich in fraudsters and mad people from other countries,” Daniel Bwayo stated.

Another user Kana Golicha added: “His intentions are not clear! No public participation in it. What will be the alternative to a visa? How much will the government going to charge? Many questions for the puppet government.”

“Free visa will allow more investors to come into the country! Also, it will improve connection amongst the public and other states... hence providing a wide pool of work /employment.” Collins Redless added.

Instagram

"No. Unless it's two-way... Are we allowed to move into their states visa-free?" a user Dianah Bossi posed.

Mimallitho added: "Can I go to Dubai without a visa? Can I go to the US without a visa?? If yes then am ready to support him."

"There's a reason as to why you have a gate to your compound and a door to your house," Jose Joss said.

"I support. We are not going to suffer alone! Let them come tusaidiane! Kinaynjui Kinyungu

"The moves this guy makes... I don't know the person he listens to but am sure that person's goal is for Ruto to be the worst president Kenya has ever had,” Gloria Ahtaji added.

President Ruto while speaking during the 60th Jamhuri Day celebrations at Uhuru Gardens on Tuesday announced that his government has decided to abolish visa requirements for all global visitors beginning January 2024.

He noted that the abolishment lies on the backdrop of embracing globalization and opening the borders to spur the socio-economic development of the country.

"Beginning January 2024, Kenya will be a visa-free country. It shall no longer be necessary for any person from any corner of the globe to carry the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya," said Ruto.