A Kenyan teenager, Sky Victor, has made an emotional plea on social media, expressing her reluctance to live with her biological father, Pastor Victor Kanyari, following a court ruling granting him full parental custody. Sky and her brother Danny are the biological children of Pastor Kanyari and the late gospel musician Betty Bayo. After Bayo's death in November 2025, the minors have been living with their stepfather, Hiram Gitau, popularly known as Tash.
According to reports, Pastor Kanyari initiated legal proceedings to secure full parental rights, citing concerns that the children were being negatively influenced while living with Tash. The court ruled in his favor, but Sky and her brother appear unwilling to move in with their biological father. In a livestream on Facebook, Sky expressed her distress, stating, "If you're going to take me from this house, please take me where mum is."
Sky Victor has appealed for help, stating that she and her brother prefer to stay where their mother left them. She expressed pain and anguish over the impending relocation, noting that it has badly affected her brother Danny. Sky emphasized that she is making this plea not just for herself but also for her brother's well-being.
Under Section 34 of the Children Act, parental responsibility automatically prioritizes a surviving biological parent upon the death of the mother. However, Sky and her brother seem determined to stay with their stepfather, Tash. The court ruling has sparked a custody battle, with the children clearly expressing their preference.
Pastor Kanyari and Betty Bayo were married before they separated, and Bayo later married Hiram Gitau in 2021. The couple lived together with the two children until Bayo's death. The current situation has raised concerns about the children's welfare and the court's decision.
Sky Victor's emotional plea has garnered attention, with many calling for a review of the court ruling. The teenager's statement, "Let us just stay where our mum left us. That's all we beg. That's all we ask for," has resonated with many Kenyans. The situation remains uncertain, with the children's future yet to be determined.
The case highlights the complexities of custody battles in Kenya, particularly when children are involved. As the situation unfolds, many are watching to see how the matter will be resolved, with the children's best interests being the primary concern. The court ruling and the children's wishes will likely play a significant role in determining their future.
Key points
- A Kenyan court has granted Pastor Victor Kanyari full parental custody of his children, but they refuse to live with him.
- The children prefer to stay with their stepfather, Tash, where their mother left them.
- The situation has sparked a custody battle, with the children's welfare and best interests being the primary concern.
