By Billian Fatima
Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala has called for the immediate release of 15 students allegedly missing after their involvement in the controversial play Echoes of War, performed by students of Butere Girls High School. The play, which centers on Kenya's governance and the 2024 youth-led anti-government protests, has been at the heart of a growing controversy.
Speaking to the media outside Eldama Ravine Police Station, Malala, who is also the writer of the play, expressed concern over the disappearance of the 15 students, who are part of the 38-member cast.
"Our cast comprises 38 girls. We have received information that 15 girls are missing. We want to know where our girls are. Police should produce the girls," Malala stated.
Malala, who was reportedly taken to the police station around midnight on Wednesday, also condemned police actions during a separate incident at Kirobon Girls High School in Nakuru on Wednesday night. According to Malala, police officers used excessive force, including firing tear gas canisters at students.
“The officers should stop using excessive force on our students. They are patriotic and have done no wrong,” he added.
Tensions surrounding the play escalated further on Thursday morning when journalists and the public were barred from accessing Kirobon Girls, where the National Drama Festival was being held. The students, scheduled to perform Echoes of War, were denied the use of a public address system, which had been in use for the festival. Instead of going forward with the play, the cast opted to sing the National Anthem as they broke down emotionally and left the stage.
The play Echoes of War has generated significant attention due to its provocative themes surrounding the country's political climate and the protests that swept across Kenya in 2024. The drama was previously disqualified during the Western Region Drama Festivals under unclear circumstances, adding fuel to the controversy.
Malala’s call for the release of the missing students and his condemnation of the police's handling of the situation have sparked heated discussions about freedom of expression, the role of drama in addressing political issues, and the treatment of young students involved in controversial performances.
The Ministry of Education and the National Police Service have not yet issued a formal statement regarding the allegations or the missing students. However, Malala’s demands for transparency and justice continue to gather support from various groups, including student organizations and civil rights advocates.
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