Police tighten security ahead of President Ruto’s State of the Nation address
Police have announced that several roads near Parliament will be closed to vehicles before the address begins. Motorists were urged to plan and use other routes to avoid disruptions.
Security operations in Nairobi have been scaled up as preparations continue for President William Ruto’s State of the Nation address, with police taking early steps to keep the capital calm ahead of Thursday’s event.
Officers have been positioned in key parts of the city, while others continue to sweep crowded areas to deter any criminal activity as Parliament readies itself for the annual address.
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Teams drawn from various security units have been moving around the city centre carrying out checks and routine patrols.
Other groups spent the day inside and around Parliament buildings, where rehearsals were held ahead of the 2:30 p.m. sitting on November 20, 2025.
Officials said the preparations were normal but needed to ensure the day proceeded smoothly.
Police have also announced that several roads near Parliament will be closed to vehicles before the address begins. Motorists were urged to plan and use other routes to avoid disruptions.
Nairobi police boss George Seda said more officers had been deployed throughout the capital to increase visibility and boost safety. He added that security will remain heightened as the festive season approaches.
The President will address a joint sitting of the National Assembly and the Senate, delivering his constitutionally required annual report.
This will be his 13th State of the Nation Address, a platform that allows him to present the country’s progress, set out priority actions and reaffirm the direction of his administration under Article 132(1)(b) of the Constitution.
National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula informed lawmakers of the special sitting after receiving the formal communication from Ruto.
The address is expected to cover government performance over the past year and highlight policies the administration has focused on.
Areas such as economic transformation, national unity, security and infrastructure may feature prominently.
Ruto will also submit a report on Kenya’s commitments at the international level, as required every year.
This year’s address comes at a time when the country is navigating regional tensions, human rights concerns across borders and political divisions at home.
In recent weeks, the government has unveiled new financial measures, including the creation of a sovereign wealth fund and an infrastructure fund meant to offer a better approach to managing public debt. These could form part of the themes in the President’s message to Parliament.
Some legislators have already hinted at possible disagreements and may use the debate that follows the address to express their stand.
The session will give insight into political shifts and the level of unity within the Houses.
With Ruto now past the halfway point of his term, many will be watching for any new commitments, shifts in priorities or fresh programs aimed at addressing public concerns.
The address also lands at a time of rising political attention following the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who had earlier indicated he was ready to work with the President.
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