Why atheists’ president wants couples to consider living apart
President of the Atheists in Kenya Society, Harrison Mumia, has suggested that couples should consider living apart, describing the idea of sleeping together every day as boring.
In a live TV show on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, Harrison said that being in the same space constantly can create a problematic power dynamic in relationships.
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“I have not been married before, but I hear stories. I don’t have first-hand experience,” he said, stressing that his comments are based on observation and discussion rather than personal experience.
He argued that many people, especially women, feel the traditional arrangement of couples living together every night does not work for them. Harrison pointed out that constant cohabitation can limit personal space and independence, which he believes is important for a healthy relationship.
He added that living apart may improve happiness and create a better dynamic between partners.
Living apart can improve relationships
Harrison explained that the idea is not to avoid intimacy but to manage relationship dynamics.
“When you are in the same space, that power dynamic can be very problematic. I think because of that, so that we avoid this dynamic…this idea of sleeping with a person every night, it is something that I do not find interesting,” he said.
He encourages couples to consider spending some nights apart to maintain personal space.
He says that partners could alternate days or spend two to three days apart.
“People are saying, wacha nikuje kwako nirudi kwako siku mbili tatu and I think this should be the norm. I am totally supporting this idea of partners living apart,” he said. Harrison believes this approach can help partners enjoy their space and increase overall happiness.
Harrison compares the concept to discussing politics without being a politician, saying that experience is not always necessary to provide insight.
“Must you be in the US to talk about Donald Trump? No. You don’t need to be a politician to talk about politics,” he said, drawing a parallel to discussing relationship arrangements without being married.
He concludes that couples do not have to follow traditional norms if they do not suit them. Harrison encourages partners to explore arrangements that respect individuality and balance personal freedom with togetherness. He says that living apart can be an effective way to maintain a strong, healthy, and fulfilling relationship.
