Suspect Denies Taking Missing Parliament Mace Amid Anti-Tax Protest Charges

Stephen Mokogi Nyarenchi, a suspect charged with unlawful entry into the parliament compound during Tuesday’s anti-tax protests, vehemently denied accusations of taking the missing parliament mace. The mace, a significant emblem of the House, symbolizing authority and dignity, has been reported missing since the protests.

Nyarenchi appeared before Principal Magistrate Ben Mark Ekhubi on Monday, where he faced charges of unlawful entry and theft of the mace. During the court session, Nyarenchi pleaded not guilty to both charges.

The incident occurred during a series of anti-tax protests that saw hundreds of citizens gather outside the parliament to voice their discontent over recent tax hikes. The protests, which were largely peaceful, took a chaotic turn when a group of demonstrators allegedly breached the parliament compound.

The missing mace has sparked a wave of controversy, as it is considered an overarching symbol of parliamentary authority. Its disappearance has raised concerns about security lapses within the parliament precincts.

In his defense, Nyarenchi maintained his innocence, stating that he had no involvement in the disappearance of the mace. “I am a peaceful protester exercising my constitutional right to demonstrate. I had no intention of breaking any laws or taking any property,” he told the court.

Magistrate Ekhubi granted Nyarenchi a cash bail of Ksh.2,000, allowing him temporary freedom as investigations continue. The case has been adjourned to a later date for further hearing.

The missing mace remains a focal point of the ongoing investigation, with authorities intensifying efforts to recover it. Meanwhile, the parliament has assured the public that measures are being taken to prevent such incidents in the future and to safeguard the integrity of the institution.

The anti-tax protests have drawn significant attention, reflecting widespread public discontent with the government’s recent fiscal policies. As the investigation unfolds, all eyes will be on the parliament and law enforcement agencies to see how they handle the situation and whether the missing mace will be recovered.