Karen Nyamu: I Haven't Broken Any Law, Polygamy is Legal

Nominated Senator Karen Nyamu has come forward to defend her relationship with Samidoh, also known as Samuel Muchoki, the Mungithi singer.

Nyamu asserts that her involvement in her current situation does not constitute a violation of laws. She cites the legality of polygamous marriages under Kenyan law, aided by a bill approved by the Kenyan Parliament in early 2014. This bill issued an amendment to the marriage legislation, recognizing the long-standing practice of men marrying more than a single wife. Endorsing customary law, the bill initially contained a clause which compelled husbands interested in a second wife to first notify and secure the needed consent from the first wife. Unfortunately, the clause found opposition from male MPs united against it, resulting in its elimination. During the debate, Suna East MP Junet Mohammed expressed the sentiment that marrying multiple wives is a common practice in Africa.

In many African nations including Kenya, polygamy has been a traditional practice for various communities. Per the customs, a man could have up to four wives only with the first wife's consent. Nyamu advises young individuals to focus on valuing authenticity and to follow their convictions, rather than merely aiming for external validation. Even though Samidoh is married to Edday Nderitu, he was allegedly involved in a relationship with the senator which ignited disputes that nearly escalated during Samidoh's concerts. Edday confirmed in July that she is no longer involved in a polygamous marriage and has relocated with her children to the United States. Guided by a string of contentious confrontations that nearly escalated to violence at Samidoh's performances, she found it best to make the move from Kenya.

Edday recently took to Facebook to clear up any misunderstandings about her marital status. She stated that she had divorced her husband and relocated from Kenya to ensure a safer, healthier environment for her children. She reported that she single-handedly provides everything her children need and does not feel any remorse about her decision to depart. Preferably, she wanted peace rather than problems. In addition to that, Edday explained that she had wanted a private marriage, but Samidoh made their relationship public by being involved with Nyamu. The mother of three concluded by stating that she left her husband for whoever needed him more.