On April 9, 2025, a confrontation unfolded at Kirobon Girls High School in Nakuru County involving former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala and law enforcement officers.
Malala, who authored the play “Echoes of War” for Butere Girls High School, was reportedly blocked by police from attending the students’ rehearsals ahead of their scheduled performance at the 63rd Kenya National Drama and Film Festivals.
“Echoes of War” has been at the center of controversy due to its thematic focus on Generation Z and its critique of governance, reflecting the youth-led protests against the Finance Bill 2024.
Initially banned during the Western Region Drama Festivals, the play was reinstated following a High Court ruling on April 3, 2025, which directed that the students be allowed to perform at the national level.
Despite the court’s directive, tensions escalated when Malala arrived at Kirobon Girls High School for final rehearsals.
Police officers barred his entry and subsequently fired tear gas to disperse journalists covering the incident. Several journalists sustained injuries during the melee, including reporters from Nation Media Group and Citizen TV.
Malala expressed his frustration, questioning the authorities’ actions:
“As the scriptwriter of the play, I came here to check on the girls during their final rehearsals, but I was not allowed inside the school.”
The incident has drawn criticism from various quarters, with concerns raised over the suppression of artistic expression and the treatment of media personnel.
The play’s performance is slated for April 10, 2025, at Lions Primary School as part of the ongoing festival.
This development underscores the ongoing tensions between creative expression and political sensitivities in Kenya, highlighting the challenges faced by artists and journalists in the current climate.
