Some cases of vandalism included theft of the mace.

The mace is a potent symbol in the Kenyan parliament, symbolizing its legitimacy and authority. The following is a detailed explanation of its importance:

The mace is a symbol of authority and dignity that symbolizes the power and reverence that the Kenyan Parliament is accorded. It denotes the gravity and significance of the legislative proceedings.

Presence of the mace:

Credibility and Legality:

The mace is considered indispensable for the conduct of lawful parliamentary business. Proceedings may be deemed illegitimate in the absence of it.

Part of Parliamentary Tradition:

The mace has been a longstanding tradition in Kenya since the country's independence. It establishes a connection between the present parliament and its historical and cultural roots.

Entrusted to the Serjeant at Arms:

The Serjeant at Arms is responsible for the preservation and proper use of the mace during parliamentary sessions.

The mace serves as a tangible reminder of the parliament's authority within Kenya's governmental framework.

Absence of the mace:

Disrupted Proceedings:

The mace's symbolic significance may result in the cessation of official business. The Speaker, who is responsible for the sessions, has the authority to adjourn parliament until the mace is either retrieved or replaced.

Lack of Legitimacy:

The absence of the mace may lead some to argue that the actions of the parliament are not guided by appropriate authority. This could be especially pertinent during critical debates or decisions.

Symbol of dissent:

In rare cases, the mace's removal from the chamber may be a deliberate act of dissent. Protesters have utilized the mace to convey their profound disapproval of parliamentary actions in Kenya's past [5].

Security Breach:

The absence of a mace may suggest a security breach within the parliament building. It is probable that investigations would be initiated to locate the mace and prevent the recurrence of such an incident.