NAIROBI, Kenya – A custody ruling has left Sky Victor struggling to sleep, concentrate on school and come to terms with a future she says is different from what she and her younger brother had hoped for.
The daughter of late gospel singer Betty Bayo and Pastor Victor Kanyari made an emotional appeal during a late-night livestream, expressing disappointment with the court’s decision and explaining why she wants to remain with Hiram Gitau, popularly known as Tash, the man she regards as her father figure.
Sky said the prolonged custody dispute, which followed her mother’s death in November 2025, had made an already painful period more difficult for the family.
“I’ve tried to sleep, but today has been a very bad day for me. Compared to the day my mom passed away, this is like the second worst day ever,” she said.
Her remarks offered a glimpse into how the legal battle has affected the teenager, who said uncertainty over the outcome had weighed on her even as she tried to keep up with school.
Why Sky Wants to Stay With Tash
At the heart of Sky’s appeal is her desire to remain in the home she shared with her mother and Tash, who had been part of her upbringing for years before Bayo’s death.
The teenager said she had hoped the court would take into account the children’s wishes and the familiarity of the environment in which they had grown up.
“I would love to stay in the place I was left by my mom. That’s where I want to stay,” she said.
Sky also sought to make clear that her preference did not amount to a rejection of her biological father.
“I respect my biological father. I really do,” she said, adding that she was uncomfortable with the final judgment.
Her comments highlight the emotional complexity of the dispute, which involves not only the legal question of custody but also the children’s relationships with the adults who have played different roles in their lives.
The custody dispute has attracted public attention since Bayo’s death, with Kanyari and Tash both featuring in discussions about the children’s care and future.
Sky Recalls Difficult Times Before Her Mother’s Death
During the livestream, Sky also recalled financial challenges the family experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
She described an incident from when she was about eight years old, saying she had asked her biological father for a birthday cake but was told to sell old shoes and clothes to raise money for it.
She contrasted that memory with the support she said she later received from Tash.
Her appeal comes as the children continue to navigate the loss of their mother while their living arrangements remain the subject of a legal dispute.
Concern for Her Younger Brother
Sky said her concerns extended beyond her own circumstances to the welfare and upbringing of her younger brother, Danny.
She alleged that during an earlier stay at her biological father’s home, their phones, clothes and other belongings were taken away and that they were locked inside the house.
Those allegations were made during the livestream and have not been independently verified.
“I’m not only considering me,” she said. “I’m considering my brother because I just want to see where the best place is for him to grow up.”
Her comments placed her brother’s welfare at the centre of her appeal, with Sky arguing that the decision should consider the children’s experiences and where they feel secure.
She also criticised online commentary about the family, saying people had been quick to judge a situation they did not fully understand.
According to Sky, the dispute has affected her schooling, social activities and ability to enjoy her teenage years.
