Nairobi – Pastor Victor Kanyari has sparked widespread online debate after explaining why he did not respond to WhatsApp messages from his late ex-wife, gospel musician Betty Bayo.
The preacher’s explanation comes after he leaked screenshots of their conversations, mainly revolving around their children’s school fees and related expenses.
The screenshots, which were shared amid ongoing custody discussions, drew criticism from Kenyans who accused Kanyari of disrespecting the late Bayo.
The screenshots, which were shared amid ongoing custody discussions, drew criticism from Kenyans who accused Kanyari of disrespecting the late Bayo.
Some felt the timing—just days before and after Bayo’s funeral—was insensitive. Others, however, defended the pastor, praising him for his commitment to supporting his children.
Speaking during a church service in Nairobi on November 23, Kanyari clarified his approach. He admitted to not responding to Bayo’s texts directly but explained that he ensured her needs and those of their children were met by sending money via M-Pesa.
Speaking during a church service in Nairobi on November 23, Kanyari clarified his approach. He admitted to not responding to Bayo’s texts directly but explained that he ensured her needs and those of their children were met by sending money via M-Pesa.
“Betty Bayo died knowing I had a good heart. Not once did she ask me for money and I say I did not have it. I always told her I would send it. I never responded to her text messages because I respond with M-Pesa,” he said.
Kanyari emphasized that he avoided long discussions over money, preferring to act quietly and responsibly.
Kanyari emphasized that he avoided long discussions over money, preferring to act quietly and responsibly.
He encouraged other men to adopt a similar approach, suggesting that sending financial support should be considered a sufficient response when a spouse or co-parent asks for help.
The revelation drew mixed reactions online. Some netizens agreed with Kanyari’s reasoning, noting that financial support is more important than constant textual acknowledgment.
The revelation drew mixed reactions online. Some netizens agreed with Kanyari’s reasoning, noting that financial support is more important than constant textual acknowledgment.
Eva D’Souza, for example, remarked that “even just a small acknowledgement is important, a simple ‘okay’.”
Others, such as Betty Khan, requested proof of the transactions, saying, “Let’s see the M-Pesa receipts first, especially the one for 94k.”
Meanwhile, some commenters highlighted cultural perspectives, sharing that many fathers and husbands prioritize sending money over engaging in long chat conversations.
On the topic of custody, Kanyari addressed concerns about the future of his children, Sky and Danny.
On the topic of custody, Kanyari addressed concerns about the future of his children, Sky and Danny.
He explained that he had asked Bayo’s widower, Tash, to continue caring for the children while he grieved their mother’s death.
Kanyari described the arrangement as a way to provide stability and emotional support for the children during a difficult period.
The incident has reignited discussions about how public figures navigate personal family matters in the digital age.
The incident has reignited discussions about how public figures navigate personal family matters in the digital age.
While some praised Kanyari for fulfilling his responsibilities as a father, others criticized him for publicizing private conversations, highlighting the sensitive balance between transparency and respect for privacy.
Pastor Kanyari’s explanation sheds light on his personal approach to parenting and financial responsibility, showing that actions—sometimes more than words—can reflect care and commitment.
Pastor Kanyari’s explanation sheds light on his personal approach to parenting and financial responsibility, showing that actions—sometimes more than words—can reflect care and commitment.
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Family