City lawyer Donald Kipkorir has joined the ongoing conversation regarding Mike Sonko’s son-in-law, Eden, following allegations that he assaulted his wife, Salma Mbuvi. The incident came to light after former Nairobi governor Mike Sonko confronted Eden, an event captured in a viral video.
Details of the Incident
Salma reportedly called her mother in distress, stating that Eden had slapped her twice after she asked for breakfast. Her mother quickly alerted Sonko, who went to Kitengela to intervene. During the confrontation, Sonko disclosed that he had been financially supporting the couple, including paying rent, school fees for their children, shopping expenses, and even gifting Eden a car.
Kipkorir’s Take on Financial Dependence
Responding to the situation, Donald Kipkorir offered a humorous but pointed critique of Eden’s reliance on his father-in-law. He likened a man in Eden’s position to a male househelp, coining the term “manny”. Kipkorir argued that a man receiving extensive support from in-laws cannot assert authority in the household, including acting violently toward his spouse.
He stated, “If by marrying a rich girl, her parents gift you a house or pay the rent, give you a car, and cover all the bills including the children’s fees, then you aren’t a HUSBAND but a MANNY: a male househelp. As a manny, you can’t raise your hand, let alone shout at the girl, as you aren’t a husband.”
Public Reaction and Discussion
Kipkorir’s commentary sparked discussions online about the impact of financial dependence on in-laws. Some netizens argued that excessive parental support can blur boundaries and create tension in marriages, while others emphasized the importance of financial independence for a healthy partnership. Many noted that respect, equality, and accountability are essential in marriage, and financial reliance should never compromise spousal roles.
Implications for Marital Dynamics
The discussion highlights broader issues of power dynamics within relationships, particularly when one partner relies heavily on external support. Kipkorir’s insights underscore that marriage requires responsibility and mutual respect, and that wealth or external assistance cannot substitute for these fundamental aspects of a healthy union.
