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Residents thrilled to host first ever fete

Friday, June 2nd, 2023 00:10 | By
Madaraka Day celebrations kick off in Embu
A section of Kenyans attending the Madaraka celebrations at Moi Stadium in Embu. PHOTO/Print

Embu town came to a standstill yesterday as business owners closed shop to attend the first Madaraka Day celebrations to be hosted in the county.

As early as 2am, buses designated to ferry locals from every ward to the venue began to arrive at Embu Moi Stadium.

Eager residents thronged the stadium to mark the day and catch a glimpse of the country’s top leadership in attendance.

By 8am, the stadium was full to capacity and the gates closed.

“We were at the venue by 2am because we did not wish to miss a place to sit. It is a great thing to attend this celebration in our county,” said Ireri Ndwiga, a resident of Mumenji.

A spot check by People Daily revealed a deserted town with only a few eateries and entertainment spots opened.

Security officers with sniffer dogs patrolled the streets to beef up security and ward off threats at the venue.

Traffic police stationed at all roads within Embu town and its outskirts ensured the smooth flow of traffic. Access to the stadium was restricted, with only vehicles with passes being allowed in.

Those who were locked out of the stadium followed the proceedings through the perimeter wall surrounding the grounds, while others watched live streams of the ceremony on their mobile phones.

Entertainers kept the attendees in high spirits as they awaited the arrival of main guests.

Nice songs

“These performers seem to have prepared enough, the songs are standard, they are completely nice songs,” Muia Nzomo, a resident of Mwea said.

When the top leaders started streaming in, locals milled around the perimeter wall to have a glimpse of the leaders.

Speakers of both Houses were the first to arrive at the stadium followed by Chief Justice Martha Koome, who was closely followed by Cabinet Secretaries.

The last to enter the stadium was President William Ruto at noon. As he rose to deliver his speech, Ruto directed officers manning the gates to let the hundreds of Kenyans who had been locked out of the stadium, prompting a wave of applaus

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