The Ministry of Gender, Culture, and Children Services has formally responded to a petition requesting the relocation of the remains of Kenya’s founding President, Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, from Parliament Grounds in Nairobi to his ancestral home in Gatundu, Kiambu County.
The petition, submitted by Kenyan citizen John Mweha on July 26, argues that the late President’s current resting place located within a site associated with the legislative arm of government may not align with traditional African cultural values or constitutional symbolism.
“This is a sincere, non-partisan appeal to the Government to initiate a dignified, consultative, and culturally sensitive process for the relocation of the remains of the late Mzee Jomo Kenyatta,” the petition stated, citing cultural significance and the possible fulfillment of a personal or familial wish.
In a statement signed by Cabinet Secretary Hannah Wendot, the Ministry acknowledged the concerns raised but emphasized that the matter involves complex legal and constitutional implications.
“The petition’s reliance on constitutional provisions is robust but requires deeper scrutiny to assess its legal viability. Consequently, a multi-phased approach is necessary,” CS Wendot noted.
The Ministry clarified that any potential relocation would require several layers of consideration, including:
- Cultural validation
- Engagement with the Kenyatta family
- Legislative and judicial oversight
“A multi-phased approach combining cultural validation, family engagement, and legal review is essential to ensure compliance with national law and to preserve unity,” the Ministry stated.
The Kenyan Constitution does not specify the exact location where a former President should be buried but mandates a State funeral for any head of state who dies in office or after their term.
Mzee Jomo Kenyatta, Kenya’s first President, died on August 22, 1978, due to complications from a stroke.
He was laid to rest at a mausoleum on Parliament Grounds—an act intended to honor his legacy and mark Kenya’s independence.
Since his burial, the mausoleum has remained under tight security and is not open to the general public.
In recent years, there have also been calls and petitions for the site to be made accessible to Kenyans wishing to pay their respects.
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