The Government Must Stop Initimidating Students And Repressing Informed And Conscientious Talent

A school play, Echoes of War, crafted by the brilliant minds of Butere Girls, reverberated through the halls of power. This was not a riot or rebellion, but a play—a courageous act of artistic expression by our children, a testament to their patriotism and creativity.

Yet, the government's response was not one of appreciation for this beautiful act but one of tear gas, intimidation, and militarized silence. Even after the judiciary, like in the Bible, said, "Let the children come to Kenya," this excessive force continued. Just as the scripture advises fathers to guide their children with love and understanding, the government should have responded to the students' expression with respect and support.

Our Constitution and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) unequivocally guarantee the right to freedom of expression, including seeking, receiving, and imparting information and ideas of all kinds in art. The African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child upholds the right of every child to participate in cultural and artistic life. This is not a privilege but a right that must be upheld.

Throughout history, artists have been the first to speak when others stay silent. Miriam Makeba sang of injustice and was exiled. Ngugi wa Thiong'o was imprisoned for staging a play. This is a tradition that should be celebrated, not suppressed. We must remember the sacrifices of these artists and learn from their courage in the face of repression.

To all those in authority, be reminded: Echoes of War don't destabilize nations—they illuminate them. Stop brutalizing our children for seeing clearly. Listen to them. Their voices are not a threat. They are a mirror, reflecting the truth that we must acknowledge and address.

Now, more plays, poems, shairs, dances, and memes must drive accountability for the brutal treatment of our daughters. We call for swift and just accountability from the security officials who have orchestrated these shameful and unconstitutional acts in Nakuru.