One of the most notable symbols of a court in Kenya is the ceremonial wig and robe that judges wear to court.
When former Chief Justice Willy Mutunga stepped out for his swearing in in 2011, the country was surprised by his dress code.
While Kenyans were waiting to see him in a ceremonial robe, complete with a wig, he rocked a business suit, straying from the Judiciary's long tradition.
Shortly after he assumed the role of CJ, he drafted what came to be known as Circuar No. CJ90 of 2011.
The document abolished the wearing of ceremonial wigs or any other head gear, except by Kadhis.
It also scrapped the use of the terms "your lord, and my lady," and replaced them with "your honour".
In a past media interview, he explained that he instituted the changes because Kenya had to shake off colonial practises.
“I thought I was going to insult President Mwai Kibaki and Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who fought so hard to get the Constitution, if I showed up for the swearing-in wearing colonial wigs and dresses,” he explained.
He then commissioned a new green robe after being convinced that there was need for Supreme Court judges to be robed.
Its advocates argued that a distinctive attire gave authority and prestige to the bench.
Despite,Mutunga's circular, many judges and lawyers continued to don the colonal wigs, holding on to them as badges of honour.
The entry of Mutunga's successor Chief Justice David Maraga signaled the stark difference in principle whereby judges and lawyers went straight back to the default attire.
