When a man is compelled to publicly declare his wife or wives it often draws attention and sparks discussions, especially on social media platforms.
This declaration can occur for various reasons, ranging from personal choices to societal expectations or even legal requirements.
In some cases, such as public events or official ceremonies, it’s customary for individuals to acknowledge their spouses as a sign of respect and recognition of their partnership.
However, when such declarations are made unexpectedly or under unusual circumstances, they may attract speculation and commentary from the public, leading to diverse reactions and interpretations.
Below are notable Kenyan public figures who have openly acknowledged their wives in public:
Senator Boni Khalwale
During a press conference addressing the tragic death of his caretaker, Senator Boni Khalwale listed the names of his wives and all 17 of his children.
This came in response to allegations made by Kakamega tycoon Cleophas Shimanyula regarding the circumstances of the caretaker’s demise.
Senator Khalwale clarified the identities of his wives and their respective children, affirming their paternity without any doubts.
“The wives I have are specific and are as follows: Wife number one is Adelaide Khawlwale who died 5 years ago. She is the mother of my first three children- all copyrights of mine, no doubt about their paternity. Josephine Khalwale, my second wife, she is the mother of three of my children- one who has completed university, and two still at the university. All copyrights, there has been no complaints about their paternity.
Three, Gloria Khalwale, who is the mother of eight of my children. These 8, some are at the university and others at the lower levels of education. They are all my copyrights. They have never had their paternity challenged. And finally, Diana Khalwale, mother of three, all of them in lower levels of education. The three children are my copyright,” explained Senator Khalwale.
Samuel Muchoki aka Samidoh
Samuel Muchoki, known as Samidoh, made headlines on March 2nd when the Mugithi artist publicly addressed his relationship status with politician Karen Nyamu, clarifying that they were merely friends.
He expressed his intention to reconcile with his wife, Edday Nderitu, and apologized to his family and fans for any distress caused.
“I am sorry!!!” “I have put my family and myself in a bad situation. It is true I had a friendship with ms. Karen Nyamu and its this involvement led to the birth of an innocent child whom I have and will always support both emotionally and materially. I am a proud father to my children.”
Samido affirmed his commitment to supporting his children emotionally and materially, emphasizing that he had not abandoned his wife of 11 years for another woman.
“I am however perturbed by the motive and timing of these past videos which have led to unnecessary trolling of the child and my wife, I have never left my wife of 11 years for another woman. I apologized to her and my family before.”
Retired President Mwai Kibaki
In 2009, President Mwai Kibaki convened a press conference at State House to dispel rumors of his alleged polygamy, a matter he deemed of utmost seriousness.
With his wife Lucy by his side and the police chief behind him, he unequivocally stated:
“I want to make it very clear that I have only one dear wife, Lucy, who is here, and I do not have any other.”
This televised declaration came in response to persistent speculation in the local media suggesting that Kibaki, then 77 years old, had a second wife in politician Mary Wambui.
Gospel singer, Muigai Wa Njoroge
Controversial gospel musician, Muigai wa Njoroge asked his fans not to judge artistes based on their life decisions.
Speaking during Mighty Salim’s burial, Muigai addressed the issue that had been spreading on different social media about him marrying two wives.
Muigai said he is judged since he is a public figure.
“Me having a second wife is not a sin,” Muigai said, he had chosen them for a reason.
Adding, “We have our lives as musicians. some people who are here today have more than one wife but nobody asks them since they are not famous. But when God helps Muigai to adds one more wife, the whole world starts fighting me.”
He continued, “You want me to grow old so I can get another one? I am not a nun. Let us live our lives. I loved her and I could not live her to stray around with my kids.”
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