Speaking in Mombasa on Thursday, May 21, during the issuance of title deeds as part of his development tour of the Coast region, the Head of State said Kenya must reject politics built on hatred, tribalism, and intimidation.
He stated that the country cannot allow violence against citizens simply because of their political opinions or associations.
Ruto’s remarks came days after Wandeto succumbed to severe burn injuries at Kenyatta National Hospital following a brutal attack in Mwiki, Kasarani.
Ruto’s remarks came days after Wandeto succumbed to severe burn injuries at Kenyatta National Hospital following a brutal attack in Mwiki, Kasarani.
The gospel singer had been admitted in critical condition after unknown attackers allegedly doused her with petrol and set her ablaze on May 16.
“For the hate you are perpetuating in Kenya, the life of one Rachel Wandeto will not go unanswered. You, who call others traitors until Wandeto was murdered because of your hatred, because of your tribalism, because of profiling some Kenyans as betrayers, one day you will answer,” Ruto said.
The President accused unnamed political figures of creating an atmosphere of hostility and intolerance that has continued to divide Kenyans along political and ethnic lines.
According to him, democracy should allow every Kenyan to freely support leaders of their choice without fear of attacks or discrimination.
“We will not allow you to blackmail anybody in Kenya. You will not blackmail our nation using hate, and you will not blackmail Kenyans as traitors because they do not believe in your tribal bigotry,” the President added.
He further called on Kenyans to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence, saying the country’s progress depends on tolerance and national cohesion rather than divisive politics.
“Our nation will not go backwards; our nation will go forward because we are one people with a common destiny,” he stated.
Rachel Wandeto had recently attracted national attention after tattooing President Ruto’s image and political slogans linked to his administration on her body.
“We will not allow you to blackmail anybody in Kenya. You will not blackmail our nation using hate, and you will not blackmail Kenyans as traitors because they do not believe in your tribal bigotry,” the President added.
He further called on Kenyans to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence, saying the country’s progress depends on tolerance and national cohesion rather than divisive politics.
“Our nation will not go backwards; our nation will go forward because we are one people with a common destiny,” he stated.
Rachel Wandeto had recently attracted national attention after tattooing President Ruto’s image and political slogans linked to his administration on her body.
Her actions sparked heated debate online, with some Kenyans praising her loyalty while others harshly criticised her decision.
Investigators believe the attack may have been linked to the attention she received on social media after the tattoos went viral.
Investigators believe the attack may have been linked to the attention she received on social media after the tattoos went viral.
The incident shocked the country and triggered widespread condemnation from leaders, civil society groups, and members of the public.
Doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital fought to save her life for several days before she succumbed to the injuries. Her death has now intensified calls for authorities to move quickly and arrest those behind the attack.
Earlier this week, President Ruto also paid tribute to Wandeto through a statement shared on his official social media accounts.
Doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital fought to save her life for several days before she succumbed to the injuries. Her death has now intensified calls for authorities to move quickly and arrest those behind the attack.
Earlier this week, President Ruto also paid tribute to Wandeto through a statement shared on his official social media accounts.
He promised that the government would ensure justice is served regardless of the political affiliations of those involved.
“May God grant the family and friends comfort, peace, and courage to bear with the loss of Ms Rachel Wandeto. The criminals who attacked this hardworking and promising lady will be held to account, irrespective of their affiliation,” the President stated.
Authorities have yet to announce arrests connected to the attack, although investigations are ongoing. Security agencies have continued gathering evidence as pressure mounts on the government to deliver justice.
The tragic incident has reopened debate about the growing levels of online hostility and political intolerance in the country, especially ahead of the 2027 General Election campaigns.
“May God grant the family and friends comfort, peace, and courage to bear with the loss of Ms Rachel Wandeto. The criminals who attacked this hardworking and promising lady will be held to account, irrespective of their affiliation,” the President stated.
Authorities have yet to announce arrests connected to the attack, although investigations are ongoing. Security agencies have continued gathering evidence as pressure mounts on the government to deliver justice.
The tragic incident has reopened debate about the growing levels of online hostility and political intolerance in the country, especially ahead of the 2027 General Election campaigns.
Political analysts warn that inflammatory rhetoric and public profiling of individuals based on political affiliation could fuel further violence if not addressed early.
During his Coast tour, Ruto has mainly focused on land reforms, infrastructure projects, economic empowerment programmes, and the blue economy.
During his Coast tour, Ruto has mainly focused on land reforms, infrastructure projects, economic empowerment programmes, and the blue economy.
In Mombasa, he issued title deeds to residents and promised to continue addressing historical land injustices affecting the region.
However, the death of Wandeto has overshadowed part of the President’s tour, with many leaders now calling for national conversations around political tolerance, responsible leadership, and peaceful engagement.
However, the death of Wandeto has overshadowed part of the President’s tour, with many leaders now calling for national conversations around political tolerance, responsible leadership, and peaceful engagement.
Tags
Breaking News