Kenya’s parliament has implemented a prohibition on the iconic Kaunda suit, named after the late Zambian President Kenneth Kaunda, within its premises.
The Speaker of Parliament, Moses Wetangula, has announced that both Kaunda suits and traditional African attire are no longer allowed. Notably, Kenyan President William Ruto often wears the Kaunda suit during official events, contributing to its popularity not only in Kenya but also in some parts of Africa.
The Kaunda suit, recognized by a safari jacket and matching trousers, derives its name from the Zambian president, who played a pivotal role in popularizing it as a fashion statement.
The ban is attributed by Speaker Wetangula to emerging fashion trends that challenge the established parliamentary dress code. He emphasized a specified dress code for men, including a coat, collar, tie, long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, socks, shoes, or service uniform. For women, the guidelines specify business, formal, or smart casual wear, with skirts and dresses required to be below knee-length, and sleeveless blouses prohibited.
While acknowledging the past tolerance of the Kaunda suit in parliament, Wetangula stressed the necessity to discontinue this practice to maintain the integrity of the parliamentary dress code. The Kaunda suit gained recent attention on Kenyan social media due to President Ruto’s frequent appearances in it during official functions.
The ban has elicited mixed reactions on social media, with some questioning the prohibition of an African attire in an African parliament, while others express support.
Quest: Udohmaj Ejiroghene.