Family of Rachel Wandetto, who succumbed after being doused with petrol, speaks

Speaking from their home in Kabumbu Village, Kirinyaga Central, the family said they are struggling to come to terms with her death and are now calling on the government to ensure justice is served.

Led by her mother, Sarah Njeri Wandeto, the family recalled their final moments with the singer at Kenyatta National Hospital on Sunday, where she had been admitted with severe burn injuries.

Although they arrived late, the hospital security team allowed them to see her.

“I saw her and she was in a lot of pain. Little did I know I was speaking to her for the last time. Her whole body was burned, only her face was visible,” her sister said emotionally.

Despite her condition, the family said Wandeto managed to speak to them and asked them to continue praying for her recovery.

Her aunt, Loise Wairimu Wachira, said the family is overwhelmed with grief.

“Racheal is gone and we will not see her again,” she said.

Her mother appealed to the government to help the family get justice.

“My request to the government is that justice prevails so that my daughter gets the justice she deserves,” she said.

The family revealed they first learned about the attack through social media and admitted they are uncertain about where to seek help.

“We want the government to intervene,” said uncle Githinji Kimaru. “We want the Ruto government, led by area MP Hon. Joseph Gachoki Gitari, to assist the family. We don’t know where to start.”

Wandeto was allegedly attacked and set on fire by unknown assailants in Mwiki, Kasarani Sub-County, three days ago. She later succumbed to her injuries at Kenyatta National Hospital after suffering burns covering 75 percent of her body.

The gospel singer had previously drawn public attention after tattooing an image of President William Ruto on her body.

Police investigations into the incident are ongoing.