Budalangi MP Raphael Wanjala has publicly defended the practice of polygamy, asserting that it is a natural inclination for men.

In an interview with TV47’s Mfahamu Kiongozi show on Thursday, August 8, the legislator claimed that “naturally a man cannot stay with one wife.”

Wanjala shared his personal journey, revealing that he currently has two wives and nine children, with plans to welcome a third wife.

He met his first wife while they were still in high school and later introduced a second wife into their household, a decision that initially caused friction with his first spouse. However, he stated that the tension eventually subsided, emphasizing the importance of balancing relationships within a polygamous family.

Raising polygamous family children

The MP further elaborated on the dynamics of raising children in a polygamous setting. He expressed confidence that his children understand their equal love and responsibilities towards both mothers.

“They all grow together and I treat them equally,” Wanjala explained. He affirmed that he strives to ensure his children do not perceive favoritism.

Additionally, he explained the layout of his compound basing it on his culture, where it dictates that, the first wife’s house is traditionally situated directly opposite the gate, while the second wife’s house is built to the right and if he was to add another wife, the house shall go to the left side.

Historical precedence

Wanjala’s defense of polygamy is rooted in his belief that many individuals live in denial about their desires for multiple partners. He reinforced his stance on the legitimacy of polygamous relationships, arguing that societal norms often force men to suppress their natural inclinations.  “Many men live in a lie; they lie and don’t want to tell the truth,” he stated,

Citing biblical figures such as Moses, Abraham, and Solomon, he claimed that polygamy has historical precedence and is part of a broader cultural narrative and suggested that “God speaks to polygamous men.”