Video: Kenyans Chant Anti-Ruto Slogans after Butere Girls Decline to Perform Echoes of War
Nakuru, Kenya – A storm of emotion, resistance, and political tension erupted at Kirobon Girls High School during the 63rd National Drama Festivals on Thursday, April 10. Butere Girls High School students stunned the nation when they declined to perform their controversial play, Echoes of War, triggering uproar and anti-government chants.
Police Block Access, Tension Builds
The day began under tight security. Police surrounded the venue early in the morning. They barred the public and media from accessing the performance area. Their orders were clear—no one was to film or photograph the play.
Despite the heavy security, murmurs of unrest filled the air. Many questioned why such drastic measures were taken. Rumors circulated that the authorities feared the content of Echoes of War, a play believed to critique government failures and leadership.
Butere Girls Refuse to Bow
Then came the unexpected twist. The Butere Girls students, known for their powerful performances, refused to perform. They revealed they had rehearsed the play tirelessly. However, they said they hadn’t even seen their director, Cleophas Malala.
Crushed and frustrated, the students stood united. They made a bold decision: no performance.
“No Butere, No Drama!”
What followed next was emotional and explosive. As the girls exited the venue, members of the public rallied around them. Loud chants filled the air:
“No Butere, No Drama! Ruto Must Go!”
Tears streamed down the faces of the students. Instead of a play, they sang the National Anthem in solidarity and sorrow. The moment was raw and heartbreaking.
But the drama wasn’t over.
Teargas in the Air
As the crowd swelled and the chants grew louder, police responded with force. They fired teargas at the protesting students and the public. Chaos broke out. Screams, coughing, and confusion clouded the scene.
Yet even amid the smoke, the students walked with dignity, their heads held high.
Their silence became their loudest protest.
A Nation Watches
This moment has struck a nerve across Kenya. It wasn’t just about a play. It was about the right to speak, perform, and express without fear. The girls may not have spoken their lines—but their actions echoed far louder than any script could.
ALSO READ: Cleophas Malala Claims Arrest Over Butere Girls’ Play “Echoes of War” Was Politically Driven
Video: Kenyans Chant Anti-Ruto Slogans after Butere Girls Decline to Perform Echoes of War
