NAIROBI, Kenya — The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has officially ordered a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of renowned gospel singer Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, popularly known as Betty Bayo.
In a directive issued to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Tuesday, the DPP mandated that the probe be initiated immediately, with the findings to be submitted to the prosecution within a seven-day window.
The 11th Hour hitmaker passed away on November 10, 2025, while undergoing treatment at the Kenyatta National Hospital.
Following her demise, a family spokesperson, accompanied by the singer’s husband, Hiram Gitau, informed the public that she had succumbed to leukaemia.
However, this version of events has been challenged by the singer’s mother, Joyce Wairimu.
On December 9, Ms. Wairimu filed a formal petition with the DPP requesting an official inquest, citing deep suspicions regarding the sudden nature of her daughter’s death.
Allegations of secrecy and foul play
In her appeal to the DPP, Ms. Wairimu alleged that the family “suspects an evil hand” in the tragedy. She raised several red flags regarding the transparency of the medical and post-mortem processes:
- Sudden onset: The petitioner claims that Bayo had never shown signs of illness prior to her sudden and mysterious death.
- Withheld information: The family allegedly faced obstacles in accessing medical records or specific details regarding the treatment the singer was receiving.
- Procedural anomalies: Serious allegations were made concerning the aftermath of her passing, including claims that the family was denied an autopsy report.
- Expedited burial: Ms. Wairimu further contended that the burial was conducted with unusual haste, suggesting it was an attempt to conceal evidence related to the cause of death.
The DCI is now expected to uncover whether there was medical negligence, foul play, or if the initial report of leukaemia holds true.
The conclusion of this seven-day investigation will determine if formal charges or a public inquest will follow.
