Kanyari Explains Controversial Interaction with Woman During TikTok Live

Victor Kanyari Addresses Backlash Over Viral TikTok Live Interaction

Pastor-turned-TikToker Victor Kanyari is once again in the spotlight, but this time, not for his sermons. He is facing criticism after a viral video showed him inappropriately touching fellow TikToker Kawira during a live session.

Kanyari and Kawira have frequently appeared together on TikTok Live, engaging in playful exchanges. The Salvation Healing Ministry pastor has often complimented Kawira’s looks, and their online partnership has seen them receive gifts and cash from followers.

However, their latest interaction sparked outrage. Kawira gifted Kanyari a painting for Valentine’s Day, and during the exchange, he moved closer to her, touching her in a way that many deemed inappropriate. Dressed in a t-shirt and dark trousers, Kanyari asked Kawira, who wore a denim jacket and short skirt, to turn around so he could see her backside before playfully spanking her. While she laughed nervously, netizens criticized the act as unbecoming of a religious leader.

In response to the backlash, Kanyari defended himself, dismissing the claims of misconduct. He insisted it was all in good fun, comparing it to acting in movies.

“I am a joker; those are my children. When I bumped her, it was not serious. Si hata watu wana act sinema? (Don’t people act in movies?) People act in movies, and it doesn’t mean they are married. I have to joke with her because she is a baby girl,” he said.

Despite his explanation, many questioned his influence on young people and whether he still deserved the title of a pastor.

This is not the first time Kanyari has been linked to a TikToker. In 2024, speculation arose about his relationship with TikToker Rish Kamunge, who openly expressed her admiration for him.

@tiktoktrends_tk_backup Kanyari and Kawira trending video #tiktoktrend_tk tiktok trends #tiktokdrama #TikTok #foryou #trendingnow #tiktoknews #trending #kanyari @_kanyari @KAWIRA @TiktokTrends_TK ♬ original sound – TiktokTrends_TK_Backup

Since his separation from gospel singer Betty Bayo in 2015, Kanyari has co-parented their two children. Despite his online antics, he remains involved in their lives, and they have voiced their opinions on his relationship with Kawira.

In December 2024, a video surfaced showing Kanyari, Kawira, and his children having a meal together. During the conversation, his son, Dani, openly disapproved of his father’s closeness to Kawira, while his daughter, Sky, jokingly reminded him to say goodnight to his “wife.”