As a member of the Civic Freedoms Forum (CFF), We strongly condemn the shocking and unlawful actions of the National Police during the 63rd edition of the National Drama and Film Festivals held at Kiribon High School in Nakuru County. These unconstitutional acts were sparked by the performance of the Echoes of War, a play presented by Butere Girls High School that mirrored the current state of Kenya’s underwhelming governance and the Gen-Z-led protests in 2024. We reiterate that freedom of the press and expression are paramount for democracies to function. When the press is under attack, democracy itself is under threat. The role of the media in holding power to account must be protected, not punished. This kind of state-sponsored violence on artistic expression and media freedom sets a dangerous precedent and must be urgently addressed.
