Rita Odafe
Kenyan Woman Accuses Ex-Husband of Exploitation
Purity Wambui Maitu, a businesswoman from Kenya, has alleged that her former partner, Ambrose Mutembei, has taken advantage of her hard work and failed to support their family.
In a report by a local Kenyan outlet, Wambui, who trades in second-hand clothes at Gikomba, shared that she not only paid her own bride price of Ksh 40,000 but also constructed a property in Mwihoko. This property comprises a main home and six rental units, entirely funded by her earnings from her business.
Despite her considerable efforts, she accuses Mutembei of collecting rent from the property over the last three years while neglecting their responsibilities towards their three children.
“I built this house by myself and paid my dowry out of love. He now collects rent and leaves me alone to take care of our children,” she expressed in frustration.
Tensions escalated when Wambui discovered that Mutembei had rented out the main house without her approval.
Feeling unsupported, she declared her intent to pursue strong measures, stating,
“If I can’t attain justice, then we might both lose. I’m prepared to demolish the house if it comes to that,” she said.
Their informal relationship, lacking any legal recognition, ended bitterly, with Wambui lamenting years of unreturned affection and dedication. Since the separation, she has built two additional homes, one upscale location in Nairobi and another in Ruiri, Meru.
Recently, Mutembei lodged a complaint against Wambui at Mwihoko Police Post, alleging that she had taken pictures of “his house.” However, Wambui firmly asserts that the property is rightfully hers, as she bought the land and financed the entire construction process.
This case underscores the difficulties faced in informal partnerships regarding shared assets. Wambui’s experience has gained significant attention and has sparked important discussions surrounding justice and equity in such circumstances.
