Femicide: Adelle Onyango takes feminist angle on story of Ruto supporter, Rachel Wandeto, who was killed

Adelle Onyango has strongly condemned femicide following the death of gospel singer Rachel Wandeto, calling for greater attention to the rising cases of violence against women in Kenya.

In a statement shared on her official Instagram account on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, Onyango described Wandeto’s death as part of a larger and deeply disturbing pattern of gender-based violence affecting women and girls across society.

She explained that femicide refers to the intentional killing of women and girls because of their gender, adding that such violence is often driven by misogyny, unequal power structures and societal norms that oppress women.

“Femicide: the intentional killing of women and girls, specifically because of their gender. It is primarily distinguished from general homicide by this gender-related motive, which is often rooted in misogyny, unequal power dynamics, and societal norms that oppress women,” Adelle wrote.

Her remarks come amid growing public outrage following Wandeto’s death after she succumbed to severe injuries sustained during a brutal petrol attack in Nairobi’s Mwiki area.

Renewed concerns over women’s safety

The incident has reignited national conversations around the safety of women and the persistent threat of femicide in the country.

According to Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, Wandeto died while receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital following the attack.

In a statement issued on Monday, May 18, 2026, Murkomen expressed sorrow over the singer’s death and condemned the attack, describing it as an act fueled by hatred and intolerance.

“I am profoundly saddened to learn of the demise of Ms Rachel Wandeto, which happened this morning at the Kenyatta National Hospital following a heinous attack by a vile and intolerant group of people,” he said.

“Her passing is deeply disturbing. No one deserves to be injured or killed for their political views or affiliation in this day and age. It should prick the conscience of those propagating politics of hate, violence, and division.”

Murkomen also revealed that he had visited Wandeto in hospital before her death and praised the courage she displayed despite her condition.

“When I visited Rachel in the hospital last evening, her face showed resilience and courage. It is quite unfortunate that she lost the fight,” he added.