“Let me take this opportunity with the full sleeves and honours of the government to apologise to all the girls of Butere Girls for the teargas that was meted out on them. I sincerely apologise,” said Itumbi.
Echoes of War Silenced by Teargas—Gov’t Issues Public Apology
He didn’t stop there. He also apologized for failing to use his position to ensure the students performed their play, Echoes of War, to completion.
“With my apology comes the full force of the government because I represent a sector of the government for the creative economy. We are not only sorry for the teargas but also for not managing this to the very end,” he added.
Itumbi promised solutions. He vowed to meet with his team to find remedies for the unfortunate incident.
A Lost Chance, A Public Outcry
The Butere Girls had worked tirelessly. Their play, written by former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, was eagerly awaited. However, things took a shocking turn.
On April 9, police officers ambushed Malala as he attempted to join the students for rehearsals. Chaos followed. The girls lacked props, a PA system, and most critically, their director.
“There is absolutely no retribution on the basis of the play. If my facts are correct, the principal at Butere Girls is actually going to retire sometime this year, in two months,” he explained.
Butere Girls Drama Scandal: Gov’t Promises to Make Things Right
New Chapter for ‘Echoes of War’
Despite the setback, Malala has not given up. He announced plans to stage Echoes of War with an adult cast. He will film the play and share it on YouTube for all to watch.
