Malala Speaks After Dramatic Detention Over Butere Girls’ ‘Echoes of War’ Play
Former United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malala has spoken out following his detention at Eldama Ravine Police Station, where he was held for over eight hours after being taken into custody on Wednesday evening.
Malala, who is also known for writing the controversial school drama Echoes of War, expressed his dismay at the government’s handling of the situation. The play, performed by students from Butere Girls High School, had drawn national attention ahead of the 63rd National Drama Festival.
Speaking to Spice FM by phone after chaotic scenes unfolded at Kirobon Girls Secondary School in Nakuru, where rehearsals were underway, Malala criticised the government’s response. He described the deployment of police officers as an open attempt to suppress freedom of expression.
“We are very disappointed by how the government is handling this matter,” he said. “I empathise with the students of Butere Girls, who had committed themselves to nurturing their talent and exposing the ills in our society.”
Photo
Standard
The former Kakamega Senator condemned the State’s decision to send police officers to the rehearsal venue, calling it an act of intimidation. He emphasised that drama festivals have long been platforms for artistic expression and social commentary.
“It is unfortunate for the State to victimise young souls,” Malala said. “This is not incitement. The script is a creative piece highlighting the challenges facing our society—issues such as governance, healthcare, and accountability.”
He reiterated that Echoes of War was written to reflect the concerns of the youth, particularly Generation Z, and their call for a better future. “This is just a play. It has nothing to do with incitement. It is artistically crafted to expose societal rot,” he added.
Malala also disclosed that no formal charges had been brought against him since his arrest. Furthermore, he claimed that the police had not communicated the grounds for his detention.
DAP-Kenya Party Leader Eugene Wamalwa, reacting to reports that police had lobbed tear gas at Butere Girls students who refused to perform due to the heavy police presence, vowed to pursue legal action.
Wamalwa warned that the government’s actions could signal a shift toward authoritarianism, where freedom of speech and expression are increasingly stifled.
In Other News: Cleophas Malala Freed Hours After Arrest Sparks Outcry
Malala Speaks After Dramatic Detention Over Butere Girls’ ‘Echoes of War’ Play
