Pastor Jackson Kanyari, brother to popular preacher Victor Kanyari, has issued a public apology after facing intense criticism over his recent comments regarding the custody of the late Betty Bayo’s children. His earlier remarks, which circulated widely on social media, sparked outrage from Kenyans who felt he had spoken insensitively about the grieving family.
In his initial statement, Jackson referred to Betty Bayo as the “superglue” that once held together her relationship with Victor Kanyari and her later partner, musician Hiram Gitau. He also praised his brother for maintaining a peaceful co-parenting relationship with Betty following their separation. However, what offended many Kenyans was Jackson’s declaration that he “would not shed a tear” for his former sister-in-law, a comment seen as disrespectful given the circumstances surrounding her death.
The preacher further waded into controversy when he suggested that the custody of Betty’s children—Sky Victor and Danny—should naturally revert to their biological father, Pastor Kanyari, claiming the matter was not open to debate. Many social media users viewed his comments as insensitive and poorly timed at a moment when the family was mourning.
After the backlash, Jackson acknowledged the public reaction and apologised. He clarified that his words had been misunderstood and insisted he never intended to tarnish Betty’s name or disrespect her memory. According to him, his point was simply that biological parents should take responsibility for their children.
Jackson also shared that he once had a close bond with Betty when she began dating his brother. He explained that they used to communicate often, and he considered her a friend at one point. He maintained that his comments did not come from malice, but from a place of familiarity and concern for his nephew and niece.
