Ian Oparanya, has sparked an online conversation after publicly sharing his views on polygamous families.
Ian shared his thoughts on Facebook, using the families of former Kakamega Senator Bonnie Khalwale and the late opposition leader Raila Odinga as examples while explaining why he believes large polygamous families can sometimes create challenges for children.
His remarks have attracted attention partly because his father is known to have two wives, making Ian's criticism particularly personal for some social media users.
“Most of the time it's a curse, especially the polygamous ones,” Ian Oparanya posted.
Read Also
Ian questions dependence on powerful fathers.
In his post, Ian argued that children from large families can sometimes become overly dependent on their parents, particularly where the father is wealthy or politically influential.
Ian further claimed that some adults from powerful families remain financially dependent on their fathers well into their later years.
“In most of these families you will find 50-year-olds who have nothing, just depending on their fathers.”
Khalwale and Odinga families cited
Ian began his argument by referring to Khalwale's large family.
He questioned the perception that growing up in a large family is automatically a blessing, suggesting that the dynamics can become complicated where several children are involved.
He then brought the Odinga family into the discussion.
Ian argued that Raila Odinga established his own political identity, while describing his brother Oburu Odinga as their father's heir.
“Oburu Odinga, who was his father's heir, is here enjoying Raila's glory.”
Ian's comments have prompted discussion about political families and whether children of prominent figures can successfully establish careers outside their parents' influence.
The Oparanya family angle
The discussion became more personal after followers pointed out that Ian himself comes from a polygamous family.
Wycliffe Oparanya has two wives, Priscah Oparanya and Caren Achieng Oparanya, and has publicly discussed his family arrangements.
This background led some commenters to question Ian's position, while others argued that being raised in a particular family structure does not prevent someone from forming a different opinion about it.
Mixed reactions online
The post attracted different responses from Facebook users.
David Otieno wrote:
“Ian is speaking from his own experience. People should listen before judging him.”
Mary Wanjiku commented:
“Coming from a polygamous family does not mean you must support polygamy.”
Kevin Mwangi said:
“The irony is obvious, considering his father's family.”
Faith Achieng added:
“Large families can be difficult, but every family is different.”
