Kenya Gov't Use of Excess Force Over 'Echoes of War' Play by Butere Girls Condemned

A dramatic arts controversy has erupted in Kenya following the staging of "Echoes of War," a play by Butere Girls High School that explores themes of governance and generational conflict. 

The play, written by former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, has become a focal point for debates surrounding artistic freedom and government tolerance, drawing sharp reactions due to its perceived parallels with Kenya's political landscape. The controversy intensified when concerns arose that President William Ruto might view the play at a State House gala, given First Lady Rachel Ruto's connection to Butere Girls as an alumna. 

The government, concerned the play would embarrass the President, allegedly attempted to suppress its performance, leading to Malala’s arrest.

Selpher Cheloti, chairperson of the Butere Girls Alumni Association, has distanced the First Lady from the controversy, condemning the negative publicity and emphasizing respect for the school’s artistic endeavors.

Despite the play's success at regional drama competitions, its scheduled performance at the Kenya National Schools and Colleges Drama and Film Festival faced significant disruptions. Police barred journalists and the public from attending, and anti-riot officers were deployed to enforce the restrictions. 

In protest, the cast refused to perform following their scriptwriter's arrest, choosing instead to sing the national anthem in defiance before leaving the stage. Chief Justice Martha Koome has voiced concerns over the defiance of court orders that permitted the play’s staging. She emphasizes the constitutional importance of respecting court orders and criticizes the use of force against students and journalists.

Malala has condemned the government’s actions, vowing to bring the play to a wider national audience. "Echoes of War" tells the story of Mustafa, a university student whose innovative telemedicine project clashes with the kingdom’s authoritarian sultan. This narrative mirrors the experiences of Kenya’s youth and recalls the anti-tax demonstrations of the previous year, during which dozens were killed.

Prominent figures, including former Chief Justice David Maraga and ODM Secretary-General Edwin Sifuna, have criticized the government’s response, underscoring the constitutional right to freedom of expression.