DIG Eluid Lagat calls on commanders to uphold ethics, win public trust

Police commanders have been urged to uphold the highest ethical standards in order to win back public trust.

The call was made by Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat who said discipline and integrity form the foundation of effective policing.

“We must adhere to the highest standards of conduct, both professionally and personally. Serving with integrity means making decisions based on the rule of law,” said Lagat when he delivered a lecturer for senior commanders attending the County Commanders’ Strategic Leadership course at National Police Leadership Academy (NPLA) in Ngong.

The session explored various leadership theories, each offering unique insights into how leaders influence their teams. It emphasised that effective leadership is situational and people-centred.

Lagat highlighted key leadership principles including integrity, vision, accountability, and mentorship—stressing their importance in improving public service delivery.

He noted that there is no one-size-fits-all leadership style, urging the County Commanders to adapt their approaches based on context and operational needs.

The DIG reiterated that modern policing demands adaptive, tech-savvy, and community-focused leadership – qualities essential for transforming police stations into centres of excellence.

“As the first contact point of contact of many citizens seeking assistance, police stations must exemplify professionalism, efficiency, and reliability,” said the police boss.

According to Lagat, through infrastructure upgrades, capacity building, and strengthened community engagement, police aim to create an environment where citizens feel safe, respected and valued.

“The transformation will not only enhance public confidence but also reinforce the critical role of policing in national policing,” he added.

The course, which aims to equip the officers with strategic communication tools necessary for fostering public trust, brought together over 80 senior officers from Kenya Police Service, Administration Police Service and Directorate of Criminal Investigations.