Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has condemned the attack on gospel singer Rachel Wandeto, who is fighting for her life after being doused with petrol and set on fire in Mwiki, Kasarani sub-county.

Murkomen visited Wandeto at Kenyatta National Hospital on Sunday evening, May 17, 2026, alongside Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, and other senior security officials.

In a statement shared after the visit, Murkomen said Kenya’s Constitution protects freedom of expression and political opinion, adding that no Kenyan should face violence because of their beliefs.

“Our vibrant democracy, backed by a robust Constitution, allows for free expression of political opinion that cannot be taken away by anybody,” Murkomen said.

“We will therefore take all measures to rein in divisive and incendiary political rhetoric, which is spreading hate and radicalisation.”

According to police, the attack happened on Friday, May 16, 2026, in Mwiki. Preliminary investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) indicate that the attackers may have targeted Wandeto because of her political views.

The singer had gained attention online after tattooing President William Ruto’s face and political slogans on her body.

Murkomen said doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital confirmed that Wandeto suffered serious burns and is receiving specialised treatment.

“The doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital informed us that she suffered significant burns and is getting the best care possible,” he stated.

He described the attack as barbaric and promised swift action against those behind it.

“I condemn this barbaric act that has no place in our society. Our investigative agencies are working hard to establish the motive and bring to book the perpetrators of the heinous act,” Murkomen said.

“Whatever the motive, no Kenyan should go through such an ordeal because of her beliefs.”

Govt pledges support amid probe

The Cabinet Secretary also said the government would support Wandeto’s family during her treatment.

“The government, led by President William Ruto, will assist the family to ensure Rachel gets the best possible treatment,” he added.

Earlier on Sunday, the National Police Service confirmed that a specialised DCI team had taken over investigations into the attack.

In a statement, the police linked the incident to political intolerance and warned against violence driven by differing opinions.

“Preliminary investigations suggest that the attack was linked to the woman’s political views, which allegedly displeased her attackers,” the police said.

The attack has triggered reactions from political leaders and public figures across the country.

Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi, who also visited Wandeto in the hospital, described the incident as cruel and unacceptable.

“Targeting someone like this is indefensible. Hata kama ni siasa, this is not the way to go,” Sudi said in a post on X.

Meanwhile, gospel musician Karangu Muraya appealed to Kenyans to donate blood for Wandeto ahead of a scheduled surgery at KNH.

Police have urged members of the public with information about the attackers to cooperate with investigators as the probe continues.