Controversial city preacher Pastor Victor Kanyari has explained why he changed his mind and paid Ksh1 million for Bahati and Diana Marua’s wedding invitation, days after publicly questioning the hefty amount.
Addressing his congregation on Sunday, October 18, 2026, Kanyari said he was moved by his long-standing friendship with the singer and the role he played in launching his music career.
The preacher had earlier questioned why guests were being charged Ksh1 million to attend a wedding, saying “Are we the ones marrying Diana?”
But he revealed that his position changed after Bahati personally visited his office to appeal to him.
“I had said I would not attend Bahati’s wedding because he is charging 1 million. But I paid that 1 million for Bahati,” Kanyari said.
He explained that he supported Bahati during his early days in the industry, including helping him release his first ever song ‘Mama’.
“His first song ‘Mama’ is the one I produced for him. I was among the first people to support his music career, even before he married Diana,” he added.
Kanyari said Bahati reminded him of their journey together when he came to his office.
“When he came to my office, he pleaded with me, he talked to me, he reminded me, and I thought, ‘Eh, let me just pay this money because… he is my friend,'” Kanyari said.
The preacher also revealed that it was his ex-wife, gospel singer Betty Bayo, who first introduced a young, unknown Bahati to him at his home in Donholm. He then gave him money to cater for his music production.
After the two reconciled on Tuesday, October 13, Bahati confirmed that Kanyari had become the first pastor to purchase the wedding invite.
“The first pastor to buy #Theinvite @PROPHET_KANYARI. We have come from far. I had not met him for over 10 years, and I am happy he has purchased,” Bahati wrote on Instagram.
Kanyari confirmed he will be attending the wedding scheduled for November 6, 2026, as a guest of honour.