Betty Bayo’s Sudden Death: Pastor Kanyari Cries Foul, Says He Was Kept in the Dark
The sudden passing of beloved Kenyan gospel singer Betty Bayo, known for her powerful hit “Eleventh Hour,” has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry. But the tragedy has been compounded by a heartbreaking revelation from her ex-partner, Pastor Victor Kanyari.
Betty sadly succumbed to Acute Myeloid Leukaemia on Monday, November 10, at Kenyatta National Hospital. However, Kanyari, with whom she shares two children, claims he was kept completely in the dark about her two-week battle with the severe illness.
In an emotional live session on Wednesday, November 12, the controversial preacher dismissed claims that he was contacted by Betty’s inner circle. He learned of her death, not her condition, a fact he says has left him devastated and full of regret.
“I am not one to neglect women. Nobody looked for me. Betty was ill for two weeks and I was not told. If I was told, I would have fought day and night for her,” Kanyari stated, visibly shaken.
He passionately argued that he would have mobilized resources to save the mother of his children, even suggesting a trip to India for treatment.
“If I had been made aware, I would have done my best with her… Cancer does not kill you in two weeks. If they needed us to raise funds, we could have, and maybe we wouldn’t be here today,” he insisted, hinting at a critique of those who managed her care.
Kanyari also questioned the timeline of the illness, finding it difficult to believe that a severe condition like blood cancer could claim a life so quickly, suggesting she must have been battling it for longer than two weeks. This aligns with online sentiments, like one fan who noted, “It was already stage 4… blood cancer doesn’t show pain until the last minute.”
Betty Bayo and Pastor Kanyari were once a high-profile couple in the Kenyan gospel scene, sharing two children. Their relationship, however, publicly unraveled following the infamous 2014 TV exposé linking Kanyari to alleged fake miracles. Betty later distanced herself, clarifying that their emotional connection had broken down even before the scandal, and denying they were ever formally married.
Despite the controversial split, many Kenyans online have extended sympathy to Kanyari, acknowledging the eternal bond they share through their kids. Comments poured in:
- Sara Wangari: “She was the mother of your children, you should have been told.”
- Irene Wangari: “May God give you more strength to raise your kids.”
In the years following their separation, Betty remarried businessman Tosh Gitau, while Kanyari continued his ministry, remaining active in the lives of their children. The tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring connection between shared parents, regardless of how complex their past may have been.
