The Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has ordered the commencement of investigations into the death of celebrated gospel singer Betty Bayo, whose real name was Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, following concerns raised by her family over the circumstances surrounding her passing.
In a letter addressed to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Tuesday, the DPP directed detectives to conduct thorough investigations into the singer’s death and submit their findings to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions within seven days.
Probe Triggered by Mother’s Letter
The directive follows a formal request by the singer’s mother, Joyce Wairimu, who on December 9 wrote to the DPP seeking an inquest into her daughter’s death.
In her letter, Wairimu expressed doubts about the official explanation given for Bayo’s death and called on authorities to establish the true cause.
Official Cause of Death Questioned
Betty Bayo, famed for the hit gospel song “11th Hour,” passed away on November 10, 2025, at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), where the family said she had been undergoing treatment.
At the time of her death, a family spokesperson — accompanied by the singer’s husband, Hiram Gitau — announced that Bayo had succumbed to leukaemia.
However, Wairimu has disputed this account, insisting that her daughter had never shown signs of serious illness prior to her sudden death.
Allegations of Suspicious Circumstances
In her communication to the DPP, Wairimu alleged that her daughter’s death was mysterious and may have involved foul play.
She claimed that the family was denied access to an autopsy report, raising concerns that critical medical details were deliberately withheld. She further alleged that Bayo was hurriedly buried, an action she believes was intended to conceal facts surrounding the circumstances of her death.
Wairimu also told prosecutors that the family was denied access to medical records and was not adequately informed about the nature of the treatment Bayo was receiving at the hospital.
DCI to Investigate, DPP Awaits Findings
The DPP’s directive now places the matter in the hands of the DCI, which is expected to investigate the medical history, treatment process, and events leading up to the singer’s death.
Once investigations are concluded, detectives are required to forward their findings to the DPP for further legal action, including the possibility of an inquest or criminal proceedings if evidence of wrongdoing is established.
Public Interest in High-Profile Case
Betty Bayo’s death shocked fans and the gospel music fraternity, with tributes pouring in from across the country. The decision by the DPP to order investigations is likely to renew public scrutiny and interest in the case, particularly given the serious allegations raised by the singer’s family.
The outcome of the investigations could determine whether the case proceeds to an inquest and potentially reshape the narrative surrounding the death of one of Kenya’s beloved gospel voices.