Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has condemned the attack on a woman allegedly targeted over her political views, warning that the government will crack down on divisive rhetoric and hate-driven radicalization.
In remarks issued after visiting the victim, identified as Rachel Wandeto, at Kenyatta National Hospital on Sunday evening, Murkomen said Kenya’s Constitution guarantees freedom of political expression and no citizen should suffer 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.
The CS said the government would take firm measures against individuals spreading hateful and inflammatory political messages.
“We will therefore take all measures to rein in divisive and incendiary political rhetoric, which is spreading hate and radicalization,” he added.
According to Murkomen, Wandeto sustained serious burns after she was attacked and injured in an incident believed to have been linked to her political opinions.
Doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital informed the CS that the victim suffered significant burns and was receiving specialized treatment.
Murkomen described the incident as barbaric and said security agencies had launched investigations to establish the motive behind the attack and identify those responsible.
“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,” he said.
The Interior CS maintained that regardless of the circumstances surrounding the attack, no Kenyan deserved to undergo such an ordeal because of their beliefs or political stance.
He also assured the family that the government would support Wandeto’s treatment under the direction of President William Ruto.
“We wish Rachel a quick recovery and grace to her family as they come to terms with this dreadful act. The Government, led by President William Ruto, will assist the family to ensure Rachel gets the best possible treatment,” Murkomen stated.
The CS was accompanied during the hospital visit by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and other senior security officials.
The incident comes amid growing concerns over political intolerance and rising tensions linked to online and offline political discourse ahead of the 2027 General Election campaigns.
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