Police step up security in Nairobi ahead of State of the Nation address

Security forces have been deployed in large numbers around key locations, including State House and the parliamentary precincts, ahead of President Ruto's highly anticipated address.

The address comes at a time when Kenyans are increasingly dissatisfied with rampant corruption, alleged security agent abductions, and an alarming rise in femicide cases.

To add to the tension, protests under the banner "Occupy Parliament" were planned to coincide with the address.

However, the National Police Service (NPS) announced on Wednesday that such demonstrations would be prohibited, citing the organisers' failure to notify authorities of the time and location of their protests, as required by statute.

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang'ula has confirmed that the President will deliver the address in Parliament on Thursday afternoon.

In his communication to Members of Parliament, Wetang'ula provided logistical guidance for the day, advising them to plan for minor inconveniences caused by the arrangements.

He stated that only House leadership would be permitted to park within the Parliament precincts, while other members would be required to park in Bunge Towers.

“Come with your drivers, be dropped at the gate, and let them proceed to park at Bunge Towers. As you know, there is enough parking space to accommodate all of us,” Wetang’ula explained.

The State of the Nation Address is a constitutional requirement under Article 132, which requires the President to provide updates on critical issues such as national security, the administration's efforts to uphold national values, and Kenya's progress in meeting its international obligations.

President Ruto is expected to outline his government's efforts to address these issues, as well as respond to public concerns.

With the address taking place against the backdrop of national unrest and growing public scrutiny, Kenyans will be eager to hear how the President intends to address the nation's pressing challenges.