Inside the Private Life of Senator Onyonka: 12 Kids & a Former IEBC Commissioner Wife

Mourners who gathered at the Kitengela home of Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka were met with unexpected personal revelations this week. The Senator was hosting friends and colleagues who had come to console him following the recent death of his mother.

While expressing his gratitude for the support, Onyonka decided to share details about his private life that had long remained out of the public eye.

A Family of Twelve

In a moment that caught many by surprise, the Senator confirmed the size of his immediate family. He stated clearly that he is a father to a dozen children.

"My children are actually 12. Yes. And their mothers are known,” he said.

He spoke candidly about his family structure, noting that the mothers of his children are well-known within his circles.

This admission provided a rare glimpse into the personal life of the vocal legislator, who is often more associated with his political stances than his domestic affairs.

The "Secret" Marriage

Perhaps the most significant revelation of the day involved his marital status. Onyonka confirmed that he is married to Dr Roselyn Akombe, the former commissioner of the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC).

"What I know many of you don't know is that Roselynev Akombe is my wife," Onyonka told the gathered mourners. He pointed to photographs of Akombe with his late mother as evidence of their close-knit relationship.

A History of Care

Beyond the confirmation of their marriage, Onyonka highlighted the deep bond between Akombe and his mother. He revealed that Akombe had been instrumental in managing his mother’s health during her final years.

According to the Senator, Akombe personally oversaw his mother's medical treatment. This included facilitating trips to the United States for specialised care.

"If you see those pictures, you'll see her with my mom. In fact, she was treating her. She would take her to the US."

Richard Onyonka previously served as a Member of Parliament for Kitutu Chache. His mother’s death has seen a cross-section of leaders from across the political divide visiting his residence to pay their respects.

Dr Roselyn Akombe rose to international prominence in 2017. She famously resigned from the IEBC and fled to the United States just days before a repeat presidential election, citing concerns over the integrity of the process.

Since then, she has held various high-level positions within international organisations, including the United Nations.

While rumours had occasionally circulated regarding a connection between the two, this is the first time the Senator has publicly and explicitly confirmed their marriage during a formal gathering.