Arise Media 
BY STEPHEN KILONZI
Former Embu County Chief Officer and senatorial aspirant Pithon Muchoki has come out strongly in defense of Butere Girls High School, whose drama performance Echoes of War has stirred national debate over artistic freedom and censorship in schools.
Muchoki described the play as a “mirror of society,” not a threat to authority, urging leaders to embrace rather than suppress youth voices.
“Silencing these young voices only perpetuates the challenges we face as a nation. This play is not dangerous—it is a mirror,” he said.
Noting that World Art Day will be celebrated on 14th April 2025 (Tuesday next week), Muchoki said it was sad to learn that artists still face resistance, especially when their work challenges the status quo.
The play, written by former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, explores corruption, political betrayal, youth disillusionment, and inequality through the eyes of a schoolgirl questioning power.
While some have hailed it as a bold masterpiece, others have criticized it as overly political for a school stage.
Initially disqualified from the Western Region Drama Festival under unclear circumstances, Echoes of War was reinstated by a court after Malala challenged the decision.
But more controversy followed in Nakuru, where Butere Girls was scheduled to perform at the national festival.
On the performance day, the students reportedly found no sound system, an almost empty hall, and journalists barred from covering the event.
In a symbolic act, the girls stood on stage, sang the National Anthem, and walked off—sparking a wave of public outrage online.
Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba later claimed the students had been cleared to perform but refused due to the absence of Malala, their director.
Malala, however, alleged he was denied entry to the venue and briefly detained.
The incident has ignited a national conversation on freedom of expression, the role of the arts in education, and the space given to young voices in national discourse.
What’s happening near you? Send us the story via
news@arisemediagroup.co.ke or WhatsApp 0750456085
Book Advert-use above contacts
90
