Butere MP calls for accountability after drama festival chaos

Butere MP Tindi Mwale has called for urgent accountability from the Ministry of Interior over the disruption of Butere Girls High School’s performance at the National Drama Festivals in Nakuru.

The lawmaker wants a full report from the Departmental Committee on Administration and Internal Security following the deployment of riot police and alleged use of force against students preparing to perform a play.

In a statement issued Thursday, Mwale criticised the police action and questioned why officers would target students participating in a lawful and educational event.

"It is both shocking and unacceptable that police would be deployed to intimidate students who are simply exercising their constitutional right through artistic expression," he said.

He described the students' participation as a positive example of young people engaging with national matters and embracing creativity.

"These girls have done nothing wrong. They have done what we encourage all young people to do — express themselves, engage with national issues, and participate in the creative arts," Mwale added.

The incident unfolded Thursday morning, just before Butere Girls were set to perform the play, Echoes of War.

Witnesses say riot police stormed the venue, used tear gas to disperse students, and blocked journalists and spectators from accessing the area.

The play, which had advanced from sub-county to national level, had previously been banned but was later cleared for performance following a High Court ruling.

Mwale linked the disruption to the arrest of Cleophas Malala, the play’s director and former UDA Secretary General, who was taken into custody on Wednesday night.

The MP questioned the timing of the arrest and suggested it was intended to interfere with the students' final preparations.

"Instead of celebrating the talent and courage of our young people, we are sending riot police to silence them. That should disturb every Kenyan who believes in freedom and democracy," he said.

Despite the court order allowing the play, students and staff were forced out of the venue. One student described the confusion and fear: "We were in costume, ready backstage, just waiting for our cue. Then, out of nowhere, officers came in and told us to leave. Next thing, people were coughing, crying, and running. We didn’t even understand what was happening."

Teachers who accompanied the students expressed their frustration and distress.

"This is the culmination of months of hard work. To be treated like a security threat for staging a play is beyond comprehension," said one drama patron.

Mwale pressed for clear answers from the Ministry, demanding to know who authorised the police deployment and what measures will be taken to avoid similar incidents in future.

"We want answers. Why was riot police deployed to an academic festival? Who authorised the disruption? And what steps are being taken to ensure this never happens again?" he asked.

He cited Article 33 of the Constitution, stressing that children have the right to express themselves and should never be penalised for doing so through art.

"No one, especially children, should ever be punished for telling stories, particularly those that reflect our national realities," he said.

Encouraging the students to remain strong, Mwale assured them that their message was heard.

"Do not be discouraged. Your voices are powerful, your work is important, and what you’ve done has already made an impact. You have not failed; the system failed you. And we will not rest until justice is served."