By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, 18 May 2026 - President William Ruto on Monday condemned the killing of local artist Rachel Wandeto, who died while receiving treatment after suffering severe burns in an attack linked to her political views.
Rachel succumbed to her injuries at Kenyatta National Hospital days after she was allegedly attacked and set ablaze at Mwiki in Kasarani, Nairobi.
The incident has sparked outrage across the country and renewed debate over political intolerance and violence.
In a statement posted on his official Facebook page, President Ruto described Rachel as a hardworking and promising young woman and vowed that those behind the attack would be brought to justice.
“May God grant the family and friends comfort, peace, and courage to bear with the loss of Ms Rachel Wandeto,” said the President.
“The criminals that attacked this hardworking and promising lady will be held to account, irrespective of their affiliation.”
Ruto said Kenya must reject political intolerance and protect freedom of speech and association.
“Kenya has no place for political intolerance that suppresses free speech or association. This threatens our democratic stability,” he stated.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also condemned the attack, terming it a senseless act of violence driven by hate and division.
“I am profoundly saddened to learn of the demise of Ms Rachel Wandeto, which happened this morning at the Kenyatta National Hospital following a heinous attack by a vile and intolerant group of people,” Murkomen said in a statement.
“When I visited Rachel in hospital on Sunday evening, her face showed resilience and courage. It is unfortunate that she lost the fight.”
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Murkomen assured the family that the government would pursue those responsible for the attack.
“We shall bring the perpetrators of this senseless act to book. Rachel will get justice,” he said.
Rachel had gained public attention after openly declaring support for President Ruto and tattooing his portrait on her chest alongside the slogan “Tutam”, associated with calls for the President to serve two terms.
According to police reports and statements recorded from her hospital bed, Rachel was attacked on the night of May 15 by three masked men who accused her of benefiting from government connections because of her political stand.
The attackers allegedly claimed she was “eating government money alone” before pouring petrol on her and setting her on fire.
The attack left her with serious burns and she was admitted to KNH for specialised treatment.
The case is under investigation by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations.
Murkomen and Douglas Kanja had visited the artist at the hospital on Sunday and assured Kenyans that detectives were pursuing those behind the attack.
Former Law Society of Kenya (LSK) president Faith Odhiambo also condemned the incident, saying it highlighted growing violence against women and the dangers of political extremism.