Pastor Kanyari defends Tash Gitau, Betty Bayo’s ex-husband

Pastor Victor Kanyari has appealed for calm and privacy, urging social media users to stop attacking his family as tensions continue to swirl online following the death of his ex-wife, gospel singer Betty Bayo.

The public drama intensified after Betty’s brother, Edward Kang’ethe Mbugua, claimed the family was not fully informed about the seriousness of her illness. He also questioned the nature of Betty’s marriage to her widower, Hiram Gitau, popularly known as Tash — remarks that quickly ignited heated debate across social platforms.

At the height of the controversy, Kanyari himself came under fire, with allegations that he was bankrolling bloggers to tarnish Tash’s name — claims he strongly denied. In an earlier church sermon, the preacher further stirred discussion after expressing concern that his children had grown distant since their mother’s death, wondering aloud whether they were being influenced.

Kanyari Calls for Peace

Following widespread backlash, Kanyari has now struck a more conciliatory tone, calling on the public to step back and allow the family space to mourn.

“Social media people fighting the family, please stop,” he said in a recent address. “They should stop fighting Tash. He lived well with Betty Bayo. Leave Sky and Danny alone. Leave that family alone. Let Tash, Danny and Sky rest. Leave Betty’s mum alone.”

He added that while he believes he knows what is best for his children, the moment calls for patience and healing. “For now, let them rest a little bit and it shall be well. Let the past remain in the past and focus on the future,” he said.

Kanyari also encouraged his congregants to lean on church and community support during difficult moments, warning against suffering in isolation.

Netizens React to Change of Tone

The preacher’s softer approach drew mixed but largely positive reactions online, with many praising the shift.

“This is how he should have been speaking from the beginning,” wrote one user, while another commented, “Change of tone — your advisor has done well.” Others expressed cautious optimism, hoping the message was genuine and not prompted by legal pressure.

Sky Publicly Backs Stepfather Tash

The call for calm comes shortly after Betty Bayo’s daughter, Sky, shared a touching video highlighting her stepfather Tash’s role in the family.

In the clip, Tash is seen carefully preparing Sky’s younger brother, Danny (Danivictor), for an outing — buttoning his shirt, applying lotion, brushing his hair, spraying perfume and helping him dress, all in a quiet, fatherly moment.

Sky captioned the video: “Dad getting Danny ready for an outing. Father-son moment.”

The post was widely praised, with many viewers applauding Tash for his visible care and support amid the ongoing custody and family tensions.

As emotions continue to run high, Kanyari’s plea adds to growing calls for restraint, understanding and compassion as the family navigates a painful and public period of loss.