Advocate Ndegwa Njiru has confirmed that former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala is currently in custody at Eldama Ravine Police Station, following a late-night arrest on Wednesday that drew attention from across the country.
Malala, who is behind the now-controversial play Echoes of War—staged by Butere Girls High School—was arrested by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in what witnesses described as a dramatic ambush. Njiru, who has been closely monitoring the situation, said Malala’s detention is politically motivated.
“Cleophas Malala, a key voice from Western Kenya and a crucial figure in our democratic struggle, is being held at Eldama Ravine Police Station,” Njiru posted online on Thursday morning. “Let us mobilise urgently. He is a prisoner of conscience.”
Earlier reports indicated that Malala was first taken to Nakuru Central Police Station, but was later transferred in a police vehicle to an undisclosed location. His driver had relayed this information to Njiru before his current whereabouts were established.
The drama surrounding Malala’s arrest stems from Echoes of War, a play that had gained national recognition before it was marred by controversy. Students from Butere Girls, who were initially selected to perform the piece at the National Drama Festival, were replaced by Vihiga Boys High School under unclear circumstances. However, a court ruling later allowed Butere Girls to reclaim their spot and perform the play.
Despite the ruling, Malala—also known for his strong ties to former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua—was reportedly blocked from interacting with the students, who were accommodated at Kirobon Girls Secondary School.
During his arrest, a standoff ensued as DCI officers surrounded his car. According to Malala, no arrest warrant was presented. Teargas was fired to disperse the growing crowd, and several journalists covering the incident were caught in the chaos.
His arrest has drawn sharp criticism, with many terming it an overreaction to what they say is simply a piece of creative expression. The play has been linked—by its critics—to themes reflecting the Gen Z-led protests of June 2024.
Among those defending Malala is Rigathi Gachagua, who lashed out at the state, accusing it of stifling creativity and using the justice system to punish dissent.
“The criminal justice system is now being used to silence artistic expression and honest critique,” Gachagua said. “Deploying five DCI vehicles to arrest a playwright whose work was selected for the National Drama Festival is nothing short of abuse of power.”
Security around Melvin Jones Academy in Nakuru, the venue hosting this year’s national drama festivals, has since been intensified. Only accredited students and officials are being allowed access, with journalists barred from entering the premises.