DPP Orders Probe Into Betty Bayo Death After Family Raises Concerns

The Directorate of Public Prosecutions has directed the commencement of investigations into the death of singer Betty Bayo, whose real name was Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua. The move follows growing concerns raised by her family over the circumstances surrounding her passing, which occurred late last year.

In a formal letter addressed to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations on Tuesday, the DPP instructed detectives to open investigations into the singer’s death and submit their findings to prosecutors within seven days. The directive signals a renewed official focus on a case that has continued to attract public attention, particularly among fans and the gospel music community.

The decision by the DPP comes after Betty Bayo’s mother, Joyce Wairimu, wrote a letter dated December 9 requesting an inquest into the death of her daughter. In her communication, Wairimu expressed doubts about the official explanation given to the family and questioned whether all relevant facts had been disclosed.

Betty Bayo, widely known for her hit song 11th Hour, died on November 10, 2025, at Kenyatta National Hospital. At the time, the family stated that she had been receiving treatment at the facility. A family spokesperson, accompanied by the singer’s husband, Hiram Gitau, later told the public that the gospel artist had succumbed to leukaemia.

Despite this explanation, Joyce Wairimu informed the DPP that the family believes there may have been external involvement in her daughter’s death. She alleged that Betty Bayo had not shown signs of illness before her hospitalization and described the circumstances of her death as mysterious.

Why is Betty Bayo’s family questioning the cause of death?

In her letter, Wairimu raised several concerns that have now prompted formal investigations. She claimed that the family was denied access to an autopsy report, limiting their ability to independently confirm the cause of death. According to her account, the burial of the singer was rushed, a move she suggested may have been intended to conceal information related to what led to her passing.

Wairimu also alleged that the family was not provided with medical records or clear information detailing what treatment Betty Bayo was receiving at Kenyatta National Hospital. These omissions, she argued, deepened the family’s suspicion and fueled their request for an official inquest.

The DPP’s directive to the DCI represents a critical step toward addressing these claims through a structured legal process. Investigators are now expected to review medical records, interview relevant parties, and establish a factual account of events leading up to the singer’s death.

What happens next in the DCI investigation?

With the investigation now formally underway, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations is required to compile its findings and forward them to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions within the specified seven-day timeline. Depending on the outcome, the DPP may recommend further legal action, an inquest, or additional inquiries.

As the process unfolds, the case is likely to remain under close public scrutiny. For many, the investigation represents an opportunity for clarity, accountability, and closure regarding the death of one of Kenya’s well-known gospel artists.

By Lucky Anyanje