Court to Rule on Removal of Parliament's Skeleton Carvings in June

Justice Chacha Mwita is poised to issue a ruling in June regarding a contentious legal case that could compel the Parliament of Kenya to remove the skeleton carvings at the entrance of the National Assembly and on the Speaker's seats.

The case, rooted in larger questions of public participation and the interpretation of cultural symbols in government contexts, has ignited significant public debate. The petitioner, John Mweha, from Ndenderu in Kiambu County, contends that the 12 skeleton carvings symbolize idolatry and occult practices. He asserts that they evoke painful recollections of colonial oppression and slavery, particularly highlighting two central figures that trample the year 1963, an emblematic date marking Kenya's independence.

Mweha argues that these representations undermine the dignity of the National Assembly and could, even unconsciously, influence lawmakers' decisions and parliamentary proceedings. Mweha advocates for the replacement of the carvings with symbols that embody hope, unity, and patriotism, asserting that such changes could create a more conducive atmosphere for governance.

He also criticizes the Parliament for allegedly proceeding with the installations without public consultation or a gazette notice, suggesting that this oversight renders the act unconstitutional and lacking transparency. The case includes prominent respondents such as the Parliamentary Service Commission, National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula, Senate Speaker Amason Kingi, and the Attorney General. Wetang'ula has sought for the court to dismiss the petition, describing it as frivolous, vexatious, and an abuse of the judicial process.

He argues that the petition lacks clarity in demonstrating a constitutional violation or how the respondents have breached the law. The skeleton carvings, which have been a longstanding feature of the National Assembly, are part of a larger artistic installation that has faced controversy regarding its intended symbolism. Despite the ongoing legal challenge, the National Assembly has not indicated any intention to alter or remove the carvings.