High-profile lawyer Donald Kipkorir has offered a critical assessment of a man whose financial responsibilities are entirely met by his spouse’s parents.
This sharp definition, labelling such a partner as a “manny” or male househelp, followed reports of a dramatic confrontation involving former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko and his son-in-law.
Dramatic Confrontation
Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko rushed to his daughter’s home after receiving a distress call on a recent Saturday.
The daughter had contacted her mother, alleging that her husband had slapped her on the face.
The incident reportedly escalated after the daughter simply asked her husband what they would eat for breakfast.
Mr Sonko quickly responded to the call, stating that no parent can remain still when their child is hurting. He and his team headed to the daughter’s residence immediately.
The Financial Backing
During the heated argument that followed, the former governor confronted his son-in-law. He revealed details about the significant financial support he provided to the couple.
Mr Sonko highlighted that he was, in fact, bankrolling the entire family.
This financial assistance included paying their rent and buying groceries. Crucially, Mr Sonko also admitted to paying school fees for the couple’s children.
He added that he had purchased the couple a Range Rover. Repeatedly, during the confrontation, Mr Sonko stressed that he paid the rent and the children’s school fees.
The ‘Manny’ Description
Following the publicised event, lawyer Donald Kipkorir took to social media to offer his commentary on the situation. He specifically addressed the status of a man whose primary financial duties are covered by his in-laws.
Mr Kipkorir defined this highly dependent arrangement. He argued that if a man marries a wealthy girl, and her parents provide essential assets and income, he loses the status of a husband.
“If by marrying a rich girl, her parents gift you a house or pay the rent, give you a car, pay your bills, including the children’s fees, then you aren’t a HUSBAND but a MANNY: a male househelp.”
The lawyer went on to state that this status as a “manny” restricts the man’s behaviour towards his partner.
“As a manny, you can’t raise your hand, let alone shout at the girl, as you aren’t a husband!”
Seeking Peaceful Resolution
Mr Sonko gave his son-in-law a severe warning to never assault his daughter again. Importantly, the former governor restrained his own team from physically harming the son-in-law, stressing that violence provides no solution.
Mr Sonko also used the incident to speak out against domestic violence. He advised young couples that while marriage is challenging, violence must not be tolerated.
He urged them to choose dialogue and peace over anger to avoid destroying the home and future. He noted that his daughter’s plight made him wonder about other Kenyans suffering silently from domestic violence.
BY moses sagwe
