Shattered echoes: Malala decries intimidation, says no explanation given for arrest

Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala blocked from accessing Butere Girls students who are set to perform their controversial play titled ' Echoes of War' on April 9, 2025. [Joseph Kipsang, Standard]

Echoes of War scriptwriter Cleophas Malala now says he has not been informed why he was arrested.

Malala is currently being held at Eldama Ravine Police Station in Baringo County.

Speaking to Spice FM on Thursday morning, Malala said no government official has communicated the reason for his arrest.

''Last night was an ugly night. I am very disappointed by how the government is handling this matter, especially its treatment of the young girls who are expressing their talents. It's unfortunate for officials and government," he said.

He further condemned what he described as intimidation of Butere Girls High School students, who have since withdrawn their performance of the Echoes of War play at the 63rd National Drama and Film Festival in Nakuru.

"I want to call on all officials and organizers to sober up," he added.

Malala said the play highlights the concerns of Gen Zs and their demand for greater accountability in governance.

Though he declined to comment further, citing his detention, he praised the students for staging a walkout in protest on Thursday morning after being denied proper costumes, soundtracks, and stage setup.

''That was a heroic move. They could not have performed without the directors, their coaches, props and the audience,'' said Malala.

His remarks followed a scuffle with police after he was blocked from accessing Butere Girls at Kirobon Girls Secondary School in Rongai, Nakuru County yester night.

Butere Girls had travelled to Nakuru to take part in the national festival, despite the State banning their play.

A High Court ruling later allowed the students and Malala to attend and present the performance

Democratic Party-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa, who visited Malala this morning, also condemned the government for frustrating the staging of the play, calling it one of the best-written plays.

"Our children should be allowed to display their talents and express themselves freely - but here we are, being blocked from accessing the play," said Wamalwa.

"What kind of government is this that fears its own citizens, its own children? We want to go in and ensure court orders are respected," he added.

Malala's lawyer, Ken Echesa, said his client was accused of "sending a bad narrative" through the play.

He dismissed the claim, noting that Malala has been Butere Girls' drama trainer for the past 15 years.

"We were told he had been arrested for staging a 'criminal' play - that he had authored a script critical of the government. But there are no such charges in criminal law," said Echesa.