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Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala has been released from Eldama Ravine Police Station, where he was detained overnight following his arrest related to the controversial play Echoes of War.
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The release was confirmed by DAP-Kenya party leader Eugene Wamalwa, who announced on Friday that he had personally secured Malala’s freedom.
Malala had initially been held at Nakuru Central Police Station before being moved to Eldama Ravine on Thursday night.
“Just secured the release of our brother @Cleophasmalala from Eldama Ravine Police Station in Baringo County,” Wamalwa posted on social media, accusing authorities of unfairly targeting Malala for writing a play that challenges those in power.
Malala, the author of Echoes of War, was arrested on Thursday evening under unclear circumstances. His detention triggered a national uproar, with many leaders and citizens condemning the move as a violation of artistic freedom.
The arrest occurred just hours before Butere Girls High School was scheduled to perform the play at the now-suspended Kenya National Drama and Film Festival in Nakuru. The production, which critiques governance issues and channels Gen Z perspectives, has already faced previous censorship attempts, including a court-overturned disqualification.
In response to the heightened security presence and Malala’s arrest, Butere Girls staged a silent protest by singing the national anthem and walking off stage without performing.
Outside the venue, tensions escalated, with police reportedly lobbing teargas at students and journalists.
The government has faced backlash from civil society, political leaders, and human rights organizations for what is widely seen as a heavy-handed suppression of creative expression.
Speaking to Spice FM from custody, Malala defended the play, insisting it was an artistic expression—not an act of incitement.
“It’s simply a play, not about name-calling or incitement. It’s a creative work,” he stated.
Prominent voices, including former Chief Justice David Maraga and Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, have spoken out against the use of force on students and artists, calling for accountability and protection of artistic freedoms.
