Lusaka approves cultural attire at the Senate

Senator Ledama Ole Kina [Twitter]

Senate Speaker Kenneth Lusaka has ruled that senators can wear traditional attire to the chambers.

His ruling came yesterday after Narok Senator Ledama ole Kina attended a plenary sitting, wearing Maasai regalia, which attracted attention from other members of the House.

Wajir Senator Abdulallahi Ibrahim sought the speaker’s direction on whether the lawmaker was dressed in accordance with rules of the House. He wanted Ledama kicked out to go and dress appropriately.

"Mr Speaker, Senator Ledama is wearing what looks like Maasai regalia. Is he in order because we can also come with all kinds of attire," Abdulallahi posed.

“We all know we represent our counties and every county has its own cultural dresses. Narok and Kajiado for example have their cultural dressing, which is recognised across the world. So, it will be unfortunate for me to order him out of the House," said Lusaka.

Lusaka said the constitution recognises culture as the foundation of the nation and the cumulative civilisation of the Kenyan people.

He added: "Therefore as the speaker, I rule that he is decently dressed and he should remain”.