The Come Together Widows and Orphans Organisation (CTWOO) has issued a strong statement condemning a wave of false and damaging allegations circulating online, following the death of Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, popularly known as Betty Bayo.
In the 19th November 2025 statement, the organisation declared solidarity with her grieving family husband Hiram Gitau (Tash), children, mother, and siblings and called out bloggers who they say spread misinformation in pursuit of clicks and financial gain.
According to CTWOO, several online users have circulated claims that suggest Betty Bayo was killed because a close kin wanted insurance benefits and has also fueled public debates on custody issues involving her children. The organization described these narratives as harmful, unverified, and deeply insensitive, especially at this time when the family is mourning.
CTWOO emphasized that the issues of the welfare and custody of the children can only be determined legally and should not be politicized or sensationalized online. It also warned that the spread of false information is not only unethical but also illegal.
In their statement, CTWOO cited Section 23 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act No. 5 of 2018, reminding bloggers and social media users that it is a criminal offence to knowingly publish false information with the intention of discrediting a person, sparking violence or harming a person’s reputation. Convicted offenders face a fine of up to KSh 5 million, imprisonment of up to 10 years or both.
Founder and Executive Director Dianah Kamande represented HSC and urged social media users to act responsibly to stop causing more emotional distress to the grieving family. CTWOO ended by calling upon the public to respect dignity of the family, do not give attention to fake narratives, and let them mourn in peace.
