In the wake of gospel singer Betty Bayo’s passing on November 10, 2025, her family has been embroiled in disputes over her estate, burial rights, and child custody.

The 42-year-old artist, known for hits like “11th Hour” and “Ngai Ti Mundu”, died at Kenyatta National Hospital after complications from leukaemia.

Her death has exposed gaps in public understanding of Kenya’s succession laws, prompting calls for increased legal education from prominent lawyer and activist Justina Wamae.

Disputes over estate

Bayo’s mother, Joyce Wairimu Mbugua, emerged as her daughter’s legally recognised next of kin, insisting her partner, Hiram Gitau (Tash), has no claim to Bayo’s property or children.

“I am the only legally recognised next of kin,” Joyce stated during a Facebook Live session on December 6, 2025.

She revealed that the burial permit had been issued in Tash’s name, calling it “incorrect and misleading”, and demanded its correction to reflect her name on all official documents.

Joyce also questioned Tash’s suitability to remain in the family home with the children, urging authorities to relocate them to a “safer environment” under her care.

legal gaps and succession challenges

The controversy underscores flaws in Kenya’s succession practices, particularly the requirement for documented legal marriages under the Law of Succession Act (Cap. 160) and the Marriage Act of 2014.

Only registered civil, Christian, Islamic, Hindu, or customary unions are recognised, leaving partners in unregistered relationships vulnerable, as seen in Bayo and Tash’s case. Joyce dismissed rumours regarding Bayo’s burial wishes in Murang’a, clarifying her daughter preferred their jointly purchased land.

In response, Justina Wamae called for legal awareness initiatives targeting rural communities. “On the issue of Betty Bayo, my request is for Mlima lawyers to organise a pro-bono law camp, Watho mashinani, to sensitise wana Mlima on the legal steps that follow after the demise and subsequently the law of succession,” she wrote on X on December 7, 2025.

Wamae emphasised understanding procedural steps, including the proper naming of next of kin on burial permits and death certificates.

She also promoted affordable civil weddings, noting, “Alafu wanaume harusi pale kwa AG civil wedding is only Ksh 3,900 (nyinyi hukunywa mingi kuliko hizo) …thank you very much, important,” highlighting their role in safeguarding inheritance rights.

She argues that legal literacy could prevent similar conflicts, helping communities honour the deceased while protecting the living.