Wiper Party Leader Kalonzo Musyoka has criticised President William Ruto's administration for allegedly allowing the tear-gassing of the Butere Girls High School students and stopping them from performing their controversial play, “Echoes of War”.
In a press statement, Kalonzo on Thursday morning questioned the motive behind the government’s alleged decision to stop the students from performing their play at the National Drama Festival in Nakuru County.
The Azimio leader, while expressing his support for the students, commended the learners for declining to perform after police interference, adding that the bravery displayed by the students served as a national wake-up call.
“How does this regime justify lobbing tear gas at young girls from Butere Girls who declined to stage their play 'Echoes of War' at the National Drama Festival?” Kalonzo questioned.
“I stand with Butere Girls and all students who joined the walkout in solidarity. Kenya must remain a country where even the echoes of war are heard and heeded.”
In his speech, Kalonzo also called on the relevant authorities, including the Ministries of Interior and Education, to intervene and stop police interference with the drama festivals.
He also accused the police of allegedly arresting former United Democratic Alliance (UDA) Secretary General Cleophas Malala, noting that his arrest displayed the fear Kenyan leaders have for the truth.
According to the Wiper party leader, Malala was only arrested by the police for exercising his rights, which are guaranteed under Article 33 of our Constitution.
Kalonzo's sentiments followed moments after police officers lobbed tear gas canisters to disperse a crowd that was protesting the treatment accorded to the Butere Girls High School students.
The learners who were part of the crowd were forced to scamper for safety, with videos of the scene shared online showing the students rushing into the bus.
The learners arrived at the Lions Melvin Jones Academy School in Nakuru ready to perform their play drafted by Malala; however, they refused to perform, demanding the release of Malala.
On Wednesday night, the former UDA Secretary General was allegedly arrested by police officers after attempting to meet the students who were rehearsing for their play ahead of today's performance.
