Police and their sniffer dogs were sent to Parliament on Wednesday morning to ensure security ahead of President Uhuru Kenyatta’s State of the Nation address.
The officers were instructed to scrutinise those who got into the premises or passed near it. Their motorcycles were seen parked at strategic locations.
Opposition leaders have assured Kenyans that there will be no acrimony in the August House during the address.
They include Jakoyo Midiwo (Gem), Junet Mohamed (Suna East), Chris Wamalwa (Kiminini), John Mbadi (Suba), and Timothy Bosire (Kitutu Masaba).
Junet said: “We will listen to him keenly. We will then sit as a caucus to draft a response to his address on Monday next week.”
A spot check indicated that officials were also busy cleaning the premises as they waited for the arrival of the MPs and the President.
Uhuru is expected to highlight his administration’s achievements. The address comes five months to the elections amid drought and rising cases of insecurity and corruption.
Last year, the President’s address was preceded by television appearances by Deputy President William Ruto and Cabinet Secretaries.
But this year’s plan, according to sources from the presidency, is to release documentaries and publications after the address to reinforce the President’s message.
Political temperatures have increased as campaigns for the August 8 poll intensify.
It is expected Uhuru will use the opportunity to rally Kenyans to come out in large numbers on election day and maintain peace.
The State of the Nation address is an annual constitutional requirement that obligates the President to address Kenyans on matters of national interest.
