Cleophas Malala Claims Arrest Over Butere Girls’ Play “Echoes of War” Was Politically Driven
Nakuru, Kenya – Tension exploded on Wednesday night as former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala clashed with police officers at Kiboron Girls High School. He claimed the state was targeting him over a controversial play he scripted for Butere Girls, titled “Echoes of War.”
“Are You Arresting Me for a School Play?”
In a fiery video posted to Facebook, Malala is seen confronting the officers. His voice trembles with emotion and anger.
“You are arresting me for just writing a play? What offence have I committed?” he demanded. “You’re being used to harass someone whose mistake is writing a play. What is the other offence I’ve committed?”
The former senator had arrived at Kiboron Girls to help the Butere Girls’ drama team rehearse for their performance at the Kenya National Drama and Film Festivals. However, a group of armed police—some in plain clothes—blocked him from entering.
Armed Officers Confront Malala
Malala, holding a court order authorizing the play’s presentation, stood his ground. He insisted he hadn’t received any summons and questioned the legality of the officers’ attempt to detain him.
“I am just implementing a court order. I can’t go. Where are the summons?” he asked. “You are denying the children their rights.”
He lamented that Butere Girls were being treated unfairly, locked inside the school like prisoners, and unable to access their scriptwriter the night before their major performance.
“Other schools are being allowed to train. Why are you denying Butere Girls their rights?” he asked emotionally. “The court directed they be prepared, but they can’t even access me.”
Malala Points Finger at President Ruto
In a sharp twist, Malala accused President William Ruto’s family of interfering with the drama festivals.
“Tell him (Ruto) that he won’t censure me,” he declared. “The Constitution provides for this. He can’t intimidate me. I will write what I want.”
He further added, “Tell the first family to stop interfering with young kids nurturing their talents. They should stop it.”
Despite the incident, Malala promised not to give up his work in the arts. He vowed to keep scripting plays that speak on governance and justice.
Controversy Behind “Echoes of War”
Echoes of War delves into youth experiences with civil liberties, social justice, and governance. Initially, the play was barred from the Western regional gala, allegedly due to pressure from powerful figures.
However, after public uproar, Basic Education PS Julius Bitok reinstated the play. He affirmed that the issues which led to its initial ban had been addressed.
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Cleophas Malala Claims Arrest Over Butere Girls’ Play “Echoes of War” Was Politically Driven
