Security beefed up around the city ahead of Ruto’s State of the Nation address

Nairobi police boss George Seda./FILE

Security agencies have ramped up security at various places in Nairobi ahead of President William Ruto’s annual State of the Nation Address in Parliament.

Officials said this was a formality to ensure all was well.

The teams have also been visiting various places to disrupt any form of crime, especially in the city centre.

Other officials staged rehearsals at Parliament in preparation for the event, which will take place on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 2:30 p.m.

Police said some roads around Parliament will be closed to traffic before the start of the event. They want motorists to seek alternative routes.

Nairobi police boss George Seda said they had deployed more personnel in the city to ensure safety at large.

He said they will also increase patrols ahead of the festive season.

Ruto will deliver his annual State of the Nation Address in Parliament, a defining constitutional milestone to take stock of the nation’s progress, set out priority actions, and reaffirm Kenya’s direction under his bold and transformative leadership.

Ruto is set to give the 13th State of the Nation Address.

The sitting will be a special joint session of Parliament (National Assembly and Senate).

This is required under Article 132(1)(b) of the Kenyan Constitution, which mandates the President to address Parliament at least once a year.

The Speaker of the National Assembly, Moses Wetang’ula, officially informed MPs after receiving a formal message from Ruto.

Ruto is expected to highlight the government’s performance over the past year, outline key policy priorities, and talk about government achievements.

He may emphasize areas such as economic transformation, national unity, security, and possibly infrastructure, given his administration’s stated goals.

As usual, he is also expected to submit a report to Parliament on Kenya’s progress in fulfilling its international obligations.

The address takes place against broader concerns, including regional tensions, cross-border human rights issues, and internal political polarization.

Ruto’s government has also announced major financial reforms in recent weeks, including the establishment of a sovereign wealth fund and an infrastructure fund to manage public debt more sustainably.

Some lawmakers are already signaling dissent.

The timing is politically significant, as Ruto has now been in office for over three years, so this address could be used to frame his vision for the remainder of his term.

Many will look out for any new initiatives or shifts in priorities, especially on the economy, social programs, or governance reforms.

After the address, Parliament will debate its contents. The reactions from lawmakers could give insight into political alignments and possible pushback.

Since the address is also for the broader public, Ruto might use it to appeal to voters, especially with the 2027 election on the horizon and with the death of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, who had indicated his willingness to support Ruto.