Musician Tattooed with Ruto's Image and “Two Terms” Slogan on Her body Dies after Petrol Attack

Gospel artiste Rachel Wandeto, who sustained severe burn injuries after she was allegedly attacked in Mwiki area, Nairobi, for expressing her political opinion, has succumbed while undergoing treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).

The death follows a National Police Service statement issued on Sunday, May 17, in which police said a woman had been doused with a substance believed to be petrol and set on fire in Mwiki area of Kasarani Sub-county on Saturday, May 16.

Police said preliminary investigations suggested the attack may have been linked to the woman’s political views, and that a specialised team from the DCI headquarters was investigating the matter.

Wandeto had gone viral after tattooing the image of President William Ruto on her body alongside the words “Two Terms” inscribed on her chest.

 She was reportedly attacked by three masked men on Saturday night and allegedly doused with petrol and set ablaze. According to police reports, the incident occurred along Obama Road, 11th Street in Mwiki shortly after midnight.

 She was initially rushed to Uzima Uhai Hospital before being transferred to the Kenyatta National Hospital after suffering burns covering nearly 70 per cent of her body.

In a statement on Monday, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said he was saddened by the death of Ms Rachel Wandetto, who he said died on Monday morning following what he described as a “heinous attack.”

“I am profoundly saddened to learn of the demise of Ms Rachel Wandetto, which happened this morning at the Kenyatta National Hospital following a heinous attack by a vile and intolerant group of people,” Murkomen said.

He said the incident was “deeply disturbing” and condemned violence linked to political differences.

“No one deserves to be injured or killed for their political views or affiliation in this day and age,” he said.

Murkomen said he visited the victim in hospital on Sunday evening and described her as resilient, adding that police would pursue suspects.

“When I visited Rachel in the hospital last evening, her face showed resilience and courage… We shall bring the perpetrators of this senseless act to book. Rachel will get justice,” he said.

He also conveyed condolences to the family, saying the government stood with them.