Renowned preacher Pastor Victor Kanyari has spoken emotionally about the tragic death of his younger sister, Starlet Wahu, during a church service. Wahu was murdered on January 3, 2024, in an Airbnb apartment in South B, Nairobi, at just 21 years old. The main suspect, John Matara, is currently facing trial after being linked to the crime through CCTV footage, bloodstains, and witness testimonies. A postmortem revealed Wahu died from excessive bleeding caused by a deep cut on her thigh that severed a major vein.
What did Pastor Kanyari’s mother say about her daughter’s death?
Kanyari shared the pain his family is enduring, particularly his mother, Lucy Nduta. “My mother told me something yesterday. She told me she knew my sister Wahu would be in her life as she grew older, but she was killed. My sister was murdered. She was a celebrity. My mum said, ‘I knew I would stay with her in my old days.’ Unfortunately, she died,” he told his congregation.
He explained that his mother had placed her hopes for companionship in Wahu, but after her untimely death, she shifted those hopes to his children. This reflection led the preacher to share a broader message with his followers about the reality of expectations within families.
Why did Pastor Kanyari warn against putting hope in children?
Kanyari revealed that even with the sacrifices he made to educate and raise his children, they now lead independent lives that sometimes leave him feeling sidelined. “I put my hopes in my children. Right now, if I call my son, he tells me he is with his son. Another one tells me she will come to see me next week. Another one tells me, ‘Wait, I will call you back later, I’m still in another important call,’” he shared.
The televangelist cautioned parents not to rely too heavily on their children for emotional or financial security as they age. “I’m telling you, don’t put hopes on your kids. Educate them, but don’t put hope on them. They will frustrate you in the coming years,” he said. Kanyari noted that while his daughter is studying in the UK and his son is also abroad, their lives may lead them to settle outside Kenya, reducing the possibility of being present for him in the future.
Authorities arrested the prime suspect, John Matara, after he sought medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident. Witnesses reported seeing him leaving the apartment with a blood-soaked towel, and CCTV evidence tied him to the crime scene where Wahu’s body was found. Matara, however, has denied the allegations, and the case remains before the courts.
By Risper Akinyi
