Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala has been released from Eldama Ravine Police Station, where he was held overnight following his arrest in connection with the controversial play “Echoes of War”.
He had been arrested in a drama outside a school he was seeking to visit Butere Girls High School in Kakamega County who were rehearsing for “Echoes of War” play.
His arrest is linked to the scripting of “Echoes of War” play, police said.
The production ignited controversy, with critics alleging that it challenges the current political regime.
Malala was arrested and driven to Nakuru Central police station before being moved to Eldama Ravine where he spent the night.
Speaking outside Eldama Ravine Police Station on Thursday mid-morning, Malala claimed 15 students were missing.
“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,” he told reporters after his release.
Malala, the writer of the play, said he was whisked to the police station at around midnight Wednesday.
He condemned police officers who resorted to firing tear gas canisters at students on Wednesday night at Kirobon Girls High School in Nakuru.
“The officers should stop using excessive force on our students. They are patriotic and have done no wrong,” he said.
On Thursday, journalists and the public audience were blocked from accessing Kirobon Girls, where the National Drama Festival was being held.
Consequently, the girls declined to perform the play.
Taking the stage at around 8 am on Thursday, the students’ echoes were silenced after being denied a public address system that has been in use for the festival.
Instead of performing the play, the cast sang the National Anthem as they broke down and left the stage.
‘Echoes of War’ has been a centre of attention as its theme is on Kenya’s governance and the 2024 youth-led anti-government protests.
The play was disqualified during the Western Region Drama Festivals under unclear circumstances.
A subsequent High Court ruling overturned that decision, reinstating the play and ordering its inclusion in the national lineup.
The play was marred by fresh controversy on Wednesday when Malala was blocked from accessing Kirobon Girls.
