Security Tightened Around Parliament Ahead of Ruto’s State of the Nation Address

 

By Emmaculate Cheruto 

Security has been significantly heightened around Parliament ahead of President William Ruto’s State of the Nation address set for 2 p.m. this afternoon.

A heavy deployment of General Service Unit (GSU) officers and regular police could be seen manning key points along major access routes to the National Assembly, including Harambee Avenue and City Hall Way. Barricade vehicles were also strategically positioned to regulate traffic and restrict unauthorised entry into the parliamentary precincts.

Authorities say the measures form part of the standard security protocol observed whenever the Head of State delivers the annual address.

Motorists and pedestrians were urged to seek alternative routes as several roads around Parliament remained temporarily closed. Traffic marshals and officers on foot guided vehicles to ease congestion and maintain movement in the surrounding streets.

The State of the Nation address is a major event in Kenya’s political calendar, offering the President an opportunity to outline the administration’s achievements, policy priorities, and legislative agenda for the coming year. It typically attracts lawmakers, diplomats, senior government officials, journalists, and members of the public.

Upon his arrival, President Ruto is expected to inspect a military guard of honour before proceeding to the chambers to deliver the address. Members of Parliament are already scheduled to convene ahead of his appearance.

A senior police official said security agencies were focused on ensuring safety for all attendees and those following the proceedings. “While this is a routine exercise, our focus remains on ensuring that everyone attending or following the address can do so safely,” the official said.

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