The National Police Service (NPS) has vowed to take disciplinary action against officers involved in the assault of journalists and students during a standoff over the controversial play Echoes of War, staged by Butere Girls High School at the National Drama Festivals in Nakuru.
The incident, which unfolded on Wednesday and Thursday, saw police officers reportedly lob teargas and physically assault members of the press and students. The chaos erupted as the officers blocked the play’s writer from entering Kirobon Girls High School, the festival’s venue.
In a statement on Thursday, the NPS strongly condemned the actions of the officers and confirmed that investigations were underway. “Any unprofessional conduct by police officers including obstruction, intimidation, harassment, or interference with journalists performing their duties will not be tolerated,” the statement read. “Officers found culpable will face disciplinary action in accordance with the law.”
The government has come under heavy criticism following the incident, with opposition leaders, human rights groups, and civil society decrying the excessive use of force and suppression of freedom of expression.
ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna condemned the incident, stating it was a direct affront to constitutional freedoms. “The country has watched with disbelief the unfolding drama at the National Drama Festival in Nakuru, where the government has seemingly run scared of a play by Butere Girls, titled Echoes of War,” said Sifuna.
Amnesty International Kenya also condemned the police actions, warning of a disturbing trend of state censorship. “By targeting a school play performed by children, the state is criminalizing creativity and turning cultural spaces into zones of fear and censorship,” Amnesty noted.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) confirmed it is investigating the matter and will recommend prosecution or disciplinary action for any officer found criminally responsible.
The incident has reignited public debate on freedom of expression in Kenya and the role of state agencies in safeguarding, rather than suppressing, artistic and journalistic freedoms.
