Protesters broke into parliament yesterday during the reject finance bill protests, vandalising the interior and setting parts of the complex on fire. The ceremonial mace, symbolising the authority of the legislature, was stolen by those who managed to infiltrate the parliament.

Police then opened fire with live ammunition, according to the Kenya Medical Association. The media personalities on the ground pictured several bodies lying on the street in pools of blood.

The Mace is also referred to as a Spectre. It was historically used to protect Kings.

Read also; International celebrities that have joined Kenyans in protesting against the finance bill

Importance of the mace

The Mace, which is a replica of the one used in the House of Commons, is made of silver gilded with 18 carat gold. It is 1.498 metres long and weighs 8.164 kilograms. 

It is regarded, both within and without Parliament, as the overarching symbol of the authority and dignity of the House as well as the Speaker presiding over the House. In monarchies, it represents Royal authority. The Mace is an essential part of Parliamentary regalia.

President Ruto pledged a tough response to what he called the “violence and anarchy”.

“It is not in order or even conceivable that criminals pretending to be peaceful protesters can reign terror against the people, their elected representatives and the institutions established under our constitution and expect to go scot-free,” Mr Ruto added.

On Wednesday morning Speaker of Parliament Moses Wetangula praised young people for leading the discourse on the finance bill and the state of the economy.

He however said that “violence, disrespect and wanton destruction of property and blatant attack on public institutions shall not be condoned”.

The killing of protesters has also been widely condemned including by human rights defenders, lawyers and the church.