The arrest of former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, the writer and director of the controversial play “Echoes of War,” has prompted a strong reaction from his son, who has issued a public message to President William Ruto’s government.

Malala was detained on the night of Wednesday, April 5, amidst a dispute over the Butere Girls High School play, scheduled for performance at the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival.

The play, “Echoes of War,” has been a source of contention due to its perceived criticism of the government.

Here are 5 key points from Leone Malala’s message to President Ruto:

1. Condemnation of Father’s Arrest

Leone Malala expressed “frustration, agony, and bitterness” over his father’s arrest, asserting that Cleophas Malala, “a writer, a patriot, and a leader,” was detained simply for writing a play that “reflects the challenges we, the Gen Z and youth of this country, are facing.”

2. Questioning Freedom of Expression

Leone directly challenged President Ruto, asking, “where did the freedom of expression in this country go?”

He implied that the arrest was an attack on artistic freedom.

3. Warning About Youth Observation

Leone cautioned the President, stating, “the youth of this country are watching, we see what you are doing, and history will not forget.”

This suggests a belief that the government’s actions are being closely scrutinized by young people.

4. Demand for Father’s Release

Leone made a direct plea to President Ruto: “Please, do not frustrate my dad. I ask you—please release my father.”

The Butere Girls’ students, in solidarity with their detained director, boycotted their performance, instead singing the national anthem and exiting the stage in protest.

They claimed they were denied basic staging necessities and were harassed by police. The situation has intensified the debate over artistic freedom and government intervention in creative expression.