Gospel musician Rachael Wandeto has died at Kenyatta National Hospital in Nairobi, leaving behind a story as bold as the tattoo she wore on her chest.
Wandeto had caught the public’s attention earlier this year when it emerged that she had tattooed President William Ruto’s face on her chest. This gesture spoke volumes about her deep political loyalty. She had been actively campaigning for the President’s re-election in 2027, moving through the streets of Mwiki and Kasarani with a passion that was hard to ignore.
That passion, however, came at a devastating cost. During her campaigns last week, three men ambushed her, doused her in petrol, and subjected her to a brutal beating, all because she was openly campaigning for Ruto. She was rushed to Uhai Neema Hospital, where she received initial treatment before the government stepped in on Saturday and arranged her transfer to Kenyatta National Hospital, where she could receive more specialised care.
By Monday, her family had confirmed the worst. Wandeto had succumbed to her burns, which had covered over seventy percent of her body. Her colleague and fellow gospel musician Karangu Muraya broke the news to the public, revealing that she had desperately needed a blood donation in her final hours but could not be saved.
“A great soul has rested. May your soul rest in peace, Rachel Wandeto,” he said.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen had visited her at the hospital on Sunday, just a day before she passed. He was visibly disturbed by the attack and wasted no time in condemning it, directing the police to fast-track their investigations and ensure that those responsible were brought to justice.
“If it is true, as there have been speculations around the possibility of a political motive, by basically attacking her for her political beliefs, this is really very dangerous for our country,” Murkomen stated.
Despite the government’s strong words and public outcry, nobody has been arrested to date.
