The National Police Service (NPS) has condemned the violent attack on gospel artist Rachel Wandeto, who sustained severe burn injuries after she was allegedly set ablaze by unknown assailants in Mwiki on May 16, 2026.
In a statement on Sunday, May 17, NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said the woman is currently receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), where she remains in critical condition.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that the attack was linked to the woman’s political views, which allegedly displeased her attackers,” Nyaga said.
He confirmed that investigations into the incident are ongoing.
According to police, the incident occurred along Obama Road in the 11th Street area, where Wandeto was allegedly attacked by three masked men.
Preliminary reports indicate that the assailants confronted her and demanded money or benefits they believed she had received due to her political support. When she reportedly said she had nothing, they doused her with petrol, set her on fire, and fled the scene.
Members of the public later alerted police after the victim was rushed to Uzima Uhai Hospital for emergency treatment shortly after midnight on Friday.
Police officers who visited the facility established that she had sustained extensive burn injuries covering approximately 70 per cent of her body. She was later transferred to KNH for specialised care.
Wandeto had previously gained public attention in early 2026 after going viral for tattooing President William Ruto’s image on her chest, alongside the slogan “TUTAM” (Two Terms) and his name on her body and head.
The incident reportedly led to tensions within her family, with claims that she was later evicted by relatives over political differences.
Photos of her injuries circulating online have sparked widespread condemnation, with calls for swift justice and increased protection for individuals targeted over political expression.
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