Wanja Nyarari has broken her silence following a viral video capturing a tense moment at gospel singer Betty Bayo’s funeral, where she was seen confronting mourners who had taken seats reserved for family members. The incident sparked widespread online debate, with some critics claiming she was overly harsh in her approach.
Clarifying the Situation
Wanja explained that the confrontation arose after mourners occupied the front-row seats intended for Bayo’s immediate family, including her brothers, spouses, and children. “Our priority was ensuring the family had their rightful seats. Some individuals refused to move despite our instructions,” she said. She noted that the ushers had prepared for large crowds and had additional chairs arranged, but the situation became tense when attendees ignored directions.
Addressing Criticism
Wanja called out gospel singer Ben Githae, accusing him of publicly criticizing her without verifying the facts. She urged commentators to confirm details before sharing opinions, emphasizing that her actions were guided by the need to protect the dignity and comfort of Bayo’s grieving family. “The comfort of the family was our focus. We ensured they eventually had the space they needed,” she said.
Maintaining Order During the Ceremony
Despite facing insults from some mourners, Wanja commended her team, particularly the ushers, for managing the crowd professionally. She highlighted that their efforts were essential in ensuring that close family members were prioritized during the emotionally charged ceremony.
Responding to Additional Allegations
The incident gained further attention after a blogger claimed Wanja nearly slapped him when he attempted to enter the burial site, which had restricted access. While Wanja did not directly address this allegation, she reiterated that her team acted in accordance with guidelines set by the funeral organizers to maintain order and protect the family’s space.
Public Reaction
The debate continues online, with many praising Wanja for her firmness and commitment to ensuring that family members were respected during the solemn occasion. Her clarification has helped contextualize the incident, highlighting the challenges organizers faced in managing large crowds during a highly emotional event.
