## Outrage and Mourning as Itumbi Speaks on Death of Gospel Artist Rachel Wandeto, Warns Against Political Intolerance

Head of Presidential Special Projects and Creative Economy Dennis Itumbi has expressed grief over the death of gospel artist Rachel Wandeto Muthoni, describing her passing as painful and raising concerns over rising hostility toward public figures based on their political views.

In a strongly worded statement, Itumbi said the late musician’s death was “painful and unnecessary,” alleging that she had faced hate, pressure, and isolation linked to her public expression of political beliefs.

He claimed that the young artist, who was known for openly supporting President William Ruto, had endured hostility for her political stance despite being “a daughter, a friend, a believer, and a human being.”

According to Itumbi, Rachel Wandeto had expressed her political loyalty openly, including through personal symbols such as a tattoo, which he described as an expression of her conviction and identity.

He cautioned against what he termed a growing culture of intolerance in Kenya, warning that politics of intimidation, cancellation, and tribal hostility were harming individuals and deepening divisions in society.

“Kenya must never become a place where artists are punished, isolated, or targeted because they think differently politically,” he said.

He further urged Kenyans to embrace tolerance and the ability to disagree without hatred, adding that the country must reflect on the consequences of political hostility.

Itumbi also extended condolences to the family of the late artist, describing her as a young talent whose life and music had been cut short, and called for unity in mourning her passing.

Her death has sparked conversations online, with leaders and members of the public continuing to send messages of condolence while also debating issues of free expression and political tolerance in the creative industry.