Security agencies in Nairobi have intensified operations across the capital ahead of President William Ruto’s annual State of the Nation Address, scheduled to take place in Parliament on Thursday, November 20, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. Officials described the heightened presence as routine preparations to ensure safety and maintain order as the country gears up for one of its most consequential constitutional moments.
Teams of officers have been deployed to conduct spot checks, increase patrols, and disrupt any emerging criminal activity, particularly within the city centre. Other units carried out rehearsals around Parliament as part of the final logistical preparations. Police have announced that several roads surrounding the precincts of Parliament will be temporarily closed to traffic, advising motorists to seek alternative routes to avoid disruptions.
Nairobi police commander George Seda said more personnel had been mobilized to keep the city secure, noting that patrols would be expanded even further as the festive season approaches.
President Ruto is expected to deliver what will be the 13th State of the Nation Address, a constitutionally mandated appearance under Article 132(1)(b), which requires the Head of State to address a joint sitting of the National Assembly and Senate at least once every year. Speaker Moses Wetang’ula formally notified legislators after receiving the official communication from the President’s office.
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The address will serve as a key moment for Ruto’s administration, offering an opportunity to take stock of the country’s progress, outline policy priorities, and reaffirm Kenya’s political and economic direction. He is expected to highlight the government’s performance over the past year, focusing on areas such as economic transformation, national unity, security, and infrastructure—priorities that have shaped his administration’s agenda.
Ruto is also obliged to submit a report to Parliament on Kenya’s progress in fulfilling its international obligations. This year’s address comes amid persistent regional tensions, cross-border human rights concerns, and growing domestic political polarization.
The government has recently introduced several significant policy and financial reforms, including the establishment of a sovereign wealth fund and a dedicated infrastructure fund aimed at improving the management of public debt. These initiatives, while welcomed by some, have drawn skepticism from sections of the political class, with some lawmakers signaling potential dissent ahead of the parliamentary debate that will follow the address.
The timing carries additional political weight. Having been in office for more than three years, Ruto is approaching the decisive second half of his term. Observers say the speech may be used to frame his vision for the remainder of his presidency, especially as the 2027 election cycle gradually takes shape. With the passing of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga—who had previously expressed willingness to work with the President—the political landscape has shifted significantly, adding new dimensions to the national debate.
After the address, Parliament will open discussions on its contents. The reactions from lawmakers will offer important signals about emerging alliances, potential pushback, and the broader mood of the country as Kenya evaluates the President’s message and the road ahead.
