‘Deeply Unfortunate’ Joho Speaks Out on Malala’s Butere Girls Incident
Mining and Blue Economy Cabinet Secretary Hassan Joho has spoken out strongly against the incident involving Butere Girls High School students, who were reportedly tear-gassed and barred from performing their play Echoes of War at the National Drama Festivals in Nakuru.
The CS criticized leaders for dragging national politics into the school environment and using students to advance political narratives.
“It is deeply unfortunate that we are lowering our politics to the level of schools, involving children, and using methods that go against our traditions,” Joho stated.
He emphasized the need for leaders to uphold values of dignity and discipline in young people, reminding the public of the lasting impact education has on the future of the nation.
“It is our responsibility to protect the dignity and discipline of our children. We must remember that we have only one country, and what we instill in them today will shape tomorrow,” he added.
The incident at the Nakuru drama festival sparked protests after the students refused to perform their play, demanding the release of their director and playwright, Cleophas Malala. A heavy police presence was reported, and tear gas was deployed. Malala was initially detained at Eldama Ravine Police Station and later released on Thursday.
According to the synopsis, Echoes of War explores ideological divides between the older and younger generations within society. The play is described as a hyperbolic portrayal of these intergenerational tensions.
The situation has provoked widespread debate online. Some have praised the play’s message, while others criticized Malala for allegedly using students to promote political ideas.
Siaya Governor James Orengo expressed his support for the play, invoking a landmark ruling by the US Supreme Court.
“‘Neither students nor teachers shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate.’ Hongera Butere Girls High School,” Orengo wrote, quoting the US Supreme Court.
Activist Okiya Omtatah also condemned the incident, drawing parallels to past censorship of Malala’s work. He cited the 2013 play Shackles of Doom, which faced similar pushback.
“Over a decade later, Echoes of War faces the same resistance. This is not just about one play—it is about defending the right to free expression within our education system. Let them speak, create, and inspire without fear of retribution. Haki yao, sauti yao!” Omtatah declared.
However, some leaders have criticized Malala’s involvement in school drama. Former KNUT Secretary General Wilson Sossion stated that Malala should not be directing students if he is not a teacher.
“Even if all the scripts are in his name, Malala cannot go to festival villages and direct our students,” Sossion said.
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‘Deeply Unfortunate’ Joho Speaks Out on Malala’s Butere Girls Incident
