A dramatic turn of events unfolded at the Kenya National Drama Festival in Melvin Jones Hall, Nakuru, after Butere Girls High School students staged a boycott of their much-anticipated performance of the play Echoes of War.
The students declined to take to the stage, demanding the presence of former Kakamega Senator and Former UDA secretary General Cleophas Malala.
Security was tight at the venue, with police officers barring journalists, students from other schools, and members of the public from accessing the hall.
The atmosphere was tense as murmurs spread through the crowd, many of whom had travelled long distances to witness Butere Girls’ performance — one that had generated significant buzz for its bold storytelling and theatrical flair.
Sources close to the school revealed that the students felt Malala’s absence undermined the support and recognition they deserved for their efforts in promoting art and storytelling. Malala, a former actor and strong advocate for the arts, is considered a mentor figure to many drama students, particularly in Western Kenya.
“The girls wanted someone who represents their journey and supports their voices to be present,” said a teacher who requested anonymity. “They view Malala as one of their own — someone who understands what this performance means.”
Festival organizers were left scrambling to address the impasse as speculation swirled over whether the students would eventually take the stage. Despite efforts from Ministry of Education officials and drama adjudicators to resolve the matter, the students stood their ground.
By evening, it remained unclear whether Echoes of War would be performed. The standoff reignited conversations around youth expression, recognition in the arts, and the role of government figures in supporting student-led creative initiatives.
