Preparations as Ruto expected to address Parliament

Military personnel rehearse on Parliament Road, Nairobi ahead of the opening of the 13th Parliament. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

It is just a few hours to the official opening of the 13th Parliament today.

President William Ruto is expected to address a joint sitting of Parliament, with members of both the Senate and the National Assembly convening for the address.

A spot check by The Standard showed a buzz of activity outside Parliament Buildings in Nairobi on Thursday, with security personnel on high guard.

Military officers have also pitched camp outside Parliament rehearsing ahead of the President's arrival.

Parliament Road and Harambee Avenue will be closed to the public for security reasons.

Ruto will inspect a guard of honour (his first since assuming office on September 13), before delivering a speech in the Bicameral House.

His address will herald the commencement of the legislative processes of the 13th Parliament.

Legislators are expected to be seated by 2.30 pm, while the President's speech will begin at 3.00 pm.

Religious leaders will make a prayer before the official address, followed by a convocation of Speakers of the Senate and the National Assembly. The National Assembly Speaker will then invite the president to make his address. Once he is done, the two speakers will then adjourn Parliament.

The Head of State is expected to address a myriad of issues in his maiden speech including the high cost of living, corruption, fast-tracking the approval of Cabinet nominees and perhaps the elusive concern for legislators' allowances.

Below are pictures of activities at the Parliament Buildings in Nairobi on Thursday.

Security officers stand guard outside Parliament, Nairobi. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

Military conducts a rehearsal outside Parliament Buildings, Nairobi. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

The President is expected to address the Bicameral House at 3.00 pm.

Little activity outside Parliament, Nairobi. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]