The custody and welfare of the late gospel musician Betty Bayo’s children have once again become a subject of public debate after a series of emotional online and public statements involving Pastor Victor Kanyari, the children’s stepfather Hiram Gitau (Tash), and their daughter Sky.
The unfolding situation has raised wider questions about children’s privacy, co-parenting after loss, and the growing trend of family disputes being aired on social media.
Sky’s TikTok live raises questions on care and supervision
Last week, Sky, the daughter of the late Betty Bayo and Pastor Kanyari, went live on TikTok, where she opened up about life at home following her mother’s passing.
During the live session, she alleged that some of her mother’s friends had not been checking on them. She also claimed that the family nanny had been dismissed following allegations of mistreatment of the children.
The statements, made in a highly public digital space, quickly circulated online, drawing mixed reactions from the public. While some expressed concern for the children’s wellbeing, others questioned the appropriateness of a minor sharing such sensitive family matters on social media.
The children are currently under the care of Tash, who was married to Betty Bayo before her passing.
Kanyari speaks out, raises negligence concerns
On Sunday, June 21, Pastor Victor Kanyari addressed the issue from his pulpit, taking a firm stance on the welfare of his children.
He accused Tash of negligence and claimed that he has been denied an opportunity to actively raise his children. Kanyari further alleged that he has been blocked from accessing the children, as well as being cut off from Betty Bayo’s close family and friends.
He publicly called on Tash to “return his children,” adding that the matter is already in court to determine custody arrangements.
Kanyari’s remarks added another layer to an already emotionally charged situation, positioning the issue not only as a family disagreement but also a legal and moral custody battle.
Concerns over Sky’s digital exposure
During the same address, Kanyari also raised concerns about Sky’s appearance and lifestyle, particularly noting that she is 13 years old.
He questioned her use of makeup and nail extensions, stating that she appeared older than her age. He further argued that she should not have access to a personal phone and should instead focus on her education.
These comments have since sparked wider public debate, with some parents agreeing with his concerns about digital exposure and teenage influence, while others argue that such matters should be handled privately within the family and legal system.
When family matters become content
The situation has reignited a growing concern in Kenya’s digital space: the increasing exposure of children and family disputes on social media platforms.
Parents and child welfare observers have expressed discomfort over the public nature of the ongoing exchanges, noting that repeated online discussions risk emotional harm to minors who are already navigating grief after the loss of their mother.
The question is how far is too far when private family conflicts become public conversations?
A family still in mourning
Since Betty Bayo’s passing, attention has remained fixed on the well-being of her children, particularly Sky and her younger sibling.
While both Kanyari and Tash appear to be asserting concern for the children’s best interests, the public nature of their disagreement has intensified scrutiny and raised concerns about stability, privacy, and emotional wellbeing.
As legal processes reportedly continue to determine custody arrangements, many observers are calling for restraint, urging the adults involved to prioritise the children’s privacy and mental health away from social media and public platforms.
For now, the children remain at the centre of a deeply emotional and highly public family dispute, one that continues to unfold both in court and online.
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