Kisii Senator Richard Onyonka has offered a rare glimpse into how his large family is organised at home, revealing that his children have created a “family board” system that helps them manage household matters with guidance from their mothers.
Speaking during an interview with Radio Generation, Onyonka said his children have taken up structured roles that help them coordinate responsibilities, including budgeting, school follow-ups and resolving minor disputes among themselves.
Children Run a “Family Board” System
According to the senator, his eldest daughter serves as the chair of the board, while one of his sons takes up a leadership role he jokingly referred to as “Papa,” acting as vice chair and operations manager.
He explained that the children sit together to plan household needs such as food budgets and holiday arrangements, and also review their school performance collectively.
“They make a budget, and food is bought, or they go and buy it. When we are on holiday for a month, the last week they do analysis of performance in school,” he said.
Onyonka added that the children also hold each other accountable academically, going through report cards and setting expectations for improvement where necessary.
“They sit and interrogate each other. They mark their report cards. They tell whoever is not doing well that next time they want better results,” he said.
Parenting Structure at Home
The senator, who confirmed he has 12 children, said he provides fully for his family but has encouraged independence due to the demands of his political career.
He noted that while he is not always physically present, the children and their mothers have developed systems that keep the household running smoothly.
“My job does not allow me to spend a lot of time with them, so I have encouraged them to be independent and work among themselves and their mothers,” he said.
Onyonka also acknowledged that the mothers of his children do not get along, but maintained that the children remain united and happy.
Public Reactions
His remarks quickly sparked reactions online, with many users commenting on the structure and financial stability behind the arrangement.
Some wrote:
- “Money is good, guys.”
- “This is the power of money.”
- “Angekuwa masikini haingefikia hapo.”
- “Master, please show us your way.”
Personal Life and Past Revelations
Onyonka has recently been open about his personal life, including confirming that he is married to former IEBC commissioner Roselyn Akombe.
He revealed that their relationship dates back years and that Akombe played a significant role in supporting his late mother’s medical care, including facilitating treatment abroad. The senator shared that their bond has been strong over time and includes children.
During a recent funeral in Kisii County for his mother, Mama Teresia, another personal detail emerged when Ruth Odinga jokingly recalled that she and Onyonka were high school acquaintances and briefly linked their youthful past during the burial proceedings.
A Large but Structured Family
Onyonka says despite the size and complexity of his family, the systems in place at home — especially the children’s “family board” — have made coordination easier and helped maintain unity among his children.
