Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has strongly criticized the events in Nakuru where security officers allegedly attempted to arrest former UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala.
In a statement on social media, Gachagua condemned what he termed the weaponization of the criminal justice system to stifle creative expression and public scrutiny.
“It is deeply shameful that numerous DCI detectives in five vehicles were deployed to apprehend Senator Cleophas Malala over a script that has earned its place at the National Drama Festival in Nakuru,” he stated.
Malala’s play, Echoes of War, a satirical piece spotlighting Gen Z and perceived government shortcomings, has stirred political tension after it was briefly banned from the festival. The court later overturned the decision, allowing Butere Girls High School to stage the play.
Gachagua defended the literary work, saying it should be viewed within its artistic context rather than treated as a threat. “This is a clear abuse of state power aimed at silencing critical voices. However, harassing the creator does nothing to mute the message—it only amplifies it,” he said.
He urged the government to welcome dissent and recognize art’s crucial role in promoting accountability, warning that suppressing creatives is a counterproductive tactic.
Earlier, Malala alleged he had been arrested by DCI officers while helping Butere Girls prepare for their presentation. A video circulating online showed a confrontation between Malala and officers, allegedly led by the Nakuru area DCIO, outside Kirobon Girls High School—the host venue of the festival.
Though initially banned for its political tone, Echoes of War received court approval on April 3, when Justice Wilfrida Okwany suspended any orders restricting the school’s participation in the festival.
