Renowned Kenyan preacher Pastor Victor Kanyari has opened up about the personal and professional fallout from a scandal that rocked his life several years ago. In a heartfelt TikTok video, Kanyari recounted the painful aftermath, including the loss of his wife Betty Bayo, his children, and his church congregation.
The Scandal’s Ripple Effect:
The scandal, exposed in an investigative report by journalists Mohamed Ali and John Allan Namu, centered around allegations of Pastor Kanyari soliciting money from congregants in exchange for prayers. This led to a significant exodus from his church, impacting both his spiritual leadership and his financial stability.
Kanyari’s Perspective:
In the video, Kanyari admitted facing immense hardship. “My wife left me,” he shared, “My co-workers left me. Life became very hard.” However, he emphasized his resolve, stating, “There is one thing I have refused to do, and that is to be discouraged.”
Bayo’s Clarification:
Adding a layer of complexity to the narrative, Betty Bayo, often referred to as Kanyari’s ex-wife, recently clarified her marital status on the gospel reality show “Oh Sister.” She affirmed being in her first marriage with Hiram Gitau (Tash) and denied ever being formally married to Kanyari.
Kanyari’s Contention:
Kanyari, however, disputes this claim. He maintains that he visited Bayo’s parents, paid dowry, and fulfilled all requirements for an official marriage. He asserts that he would never have children with someone he wasn’t formally married to.
Looking Ahead:
Despite the split, Kanyari expresses his commitment to co-parenting with Bayo. He acknowledges the challenges he faces but emphasizes his resilience and determination to move forward.
