WAJIR, Kenya — Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service (KPS) Eliud Lagat has commended police officers participating in preparations for the 63rd Madaraka Day celebrations, praising their discipline, commitment, and performance during weeks of intensive parade rehearsals in Wajir.
Addressing officers on Sunday ahead of the national celebrations scheduled for June 1, Lagat thanked the security personnel for their dedication since the rehearsals began on April 27, noting that they had maintained high standards despite the demands of the training programme.
According to the National Police Service (NPS), the Deputy Inspector General acknowledged the officers’ resilience and professionalism throughout the preparation period, describing their conduct as exemplary.
Lagat particularly singled out the officers’ performance during the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) dress rehearsal, saying the contingent had demonstrated exceptional marching discipline, coordination, and parade command.
He congratulated the officers for successfully completing the rehearsal phase and encouraged them to remain focused as they prepare for the final national event.
“You have demonstrated commitment, discipline, and resilience throughout the preparation period,” Lagat said, urging the officers to maintain the same standards during the main celebrations.
The annual Madaraka Day celebrations mark Kenya’s attainment of internal self-rule on June 1, 1963, and remain one of the country’s most significant national events. This year’s celebrations are being hosted in Wajir County, marking a major national occasion for the region.
The government has invested heavily in infrastructure and logistical preparations ahead of the event, including improvements to roads, public facilities, and the main celebration venue.
Lagat emphasized that discipline remains a core value in policing and public service, noting that it shapes both professional excellence and personal responsibility.
“Discipline cuts across every aspect of life and remains fundamental in policing and service delivery,” he told the officers.
The Deputy Inspector General’s remarks come amid heightened security preparations across Wajir as thousands of guests, government officials, and members of the public are expected to attend the celebrations led by President William Ruto.
Security agencies have been coordinating closely to ensure smooth operations during the event, which will feature military and police parades, cultural performances, and official addresses.
Lagat was accompanied by senior National Police Service commanders, including General Service Unit Commandant Ranson Lolmodooni, Director of Planning Peter Ndung’u, Director of Community Policing Judy Lamet, Director of Operations Phillip Opiyo, Director of the National Disaster Management Unit Duncan Ochieng’, and Wajir Multi-Agency Camp Coordinator David Njagi.
The officers were urged to deliver a flawless performance during the national celebrations, which are expected to showcase the preparedness and professionalism of Kenya’s security services before a national audience.
As the country marks 63 years of self-governance, security agencies remain at the centre of efforts to ensure the celebrations proceed peacefully and successfully.
