Political leaders have condemned the brutal acid attack that led to the death of Rachel Wandeto, describing the incident as a dangerous sign of growing political intolerance and hate in the country.
Speaking during a press briefing at the Kenyatta National Hospital on Wednesday, nominated senator Tabitha Mutinda said Rachel’s death was a painful reminder of the dangers posed by incitement, intimidation, and divisive political rhetoric.
Mutinda said Rachel allegedly became a target after openly expressing support for President William Ruto through a tattoo bearing his image on her shoulder.
“We are deeply saddened and outraged by the horrific death of Rachel, a young Kenyan woman who suffered a brutal acid attack allegedly carried out by unknown assailants. Rachel’s only crime was openly expressing her democratic choice and political loyalty,” said Mutinda.
The nominated senator described the killing as cruel and senseless, saying no Kenyan should lose their life because of political affiliation or personal expression.
“Her death is not just a personal tragedy to Rachel’s loved ones but a painful reminder of the growing culture of intolerance, political intimidation, and reckless public rhetoric that continues to poison national discourse,” she added.
Mutinda conveyed condolences to Rachel’s family and friends and called on Kenyans to remain united in defending constitutional freedoms and democratic rights.
“No family should bury a daughter or son because of politics. No Kenyan should fear violence for supporting a leader of their choice,” she said.
The legislator further condemned inflammatory political remarks allegedly made by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, saying careless statements by leaders can fuel hostility and embolden extremists.
“Leadership demands restraint, wisdom, and responsibility, not threats, intimidation, or political bullying,” Mutinda stated.
She warned that divisive politics and tribal incitement could expose ordinary citizens to violence, noting that Kenya remains a constitutional democracy where citizens are free to associate politically without fear.
“Words matter and public statements matter. Leaders must understand that reckless utterances carry consequences beyond political rallies and television appearances,” she said.
Mutinda called on investigative agencies to conduct swift, transparent, and thorough investigations into the attack and death of Rachel.
She also urged political leaders across the divide to condemn political intolerance and reject hate-driven politics.
The senator further appealed to human rights organizations and women leaders to speak out strongly against politically motivated violence and intimidation.
She announced that leaders would later present a formal petition to the Inspector General of Police demanding speedy investigations, accountability, witness protection and action against individuals accused of spreading incitement and hate speech.
“As women, we strongly condemn attempts to deny people the freedom to choose political associations. Every Kenyan has a constitutional right to support a leader of their choice,” Mutinda added.
Mbeere North MP Leonard Wamuthende termed the incident inhumane and unacceptable in a democratic society governed by the Constitution and the rule of law.
On behalf of his family and the people of Mbeere, Wamuthende conveyed condolences to Rachel’s family and pledged support during the difficult period.
“What we have witnessed in Rachel’s case is something that should never happen in Kenya. To have a young woman, a mother, a sister, a wife, and a daughter treated in such an inhumane manner and meet such a cruel death is unacceptable,” he said.
The MP said leaders across the political divide should condemn the attack, which he claimed appeared politically motivated.
“She came out with a tattoo of our sitting president, Dr. William Samoei Ruto, and she was accosted, and this happened,” Wamuthende stated.
He confirmed that he had accompanied Rachel’s family to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) homicide offices and expressed confidence that investigations would lead to arrests.
“I believe we are going to see action being taken against whoever committed this shameful and despicable act against our sister, the late Rachel,” he added.
Wamuthende also urged the media to highlight the matter to ensure accountability and discourage leaders from using divisive political statements that could incite hostility among supporters.
“We are going to continue sensitising Kenyans until leaders across the divide condemn this act,” he said.
Also in attendance at the press briefing was former Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria, who also condemned the killing, terming it barbaric and warning that the country was entering a delicate political period ahead of the next General Election.
“We are not living in normal times. We are living in extraordinary times, and leaders must understand the consequences and weight of the influence they carry,” Kuria said.
He noted that every Kenyan has a democratic right to hold political opinions and support leaders of their choice without intimidation or fear.
“Rachel’s only fault was to have a tattoo of a leader of her choice. Surely, how can that be a crime?” he posed.
Kuria further claimed that several people had recently lost their lives during demonstrations in different parts of the country, warning against normalizing violence and political hostility.
He criticized human rights organizations and women’s groups for what he termed as silence over Rachel’s death, saying her life mattered equally as that of other victims of violence.
“The people who are talking about femicide should also recognize this as femicide, even if it is politically motivated,” he said.
Kuria maintained that democracy must protect both opposition supporters and those backing the government.
“Democracy is not only for the opposition. Democracy is also for people who support the government,” he stated.
The leaders urged Kenyans to uphold peace, tolerance, and national unity while calling for justice and accountability over Rachel’s death.
By Catherine Odoyo and Sallo Gobana
