- Cleophas Malala wants First Lady Rachel Ruto to speak out on the Butere Girls’ play controversy.
- He says her silence is worrying, especially since she studied at the school.
- Malala believes using force on students is unacceptable.
- He questions Education CS Julius Ogamba’s claims that the play’s script was changed.
Former UDA Secretary General Cleophas Malala has called out First Lady Rachel Ruto for her silence over the ongoing controversy involving Butere Girls High School.
Speaking on Sunday, April 13, Malala said it is shocking that the First Lady, who once studied at the school, has not said a word despite the public uproar.
“If you can stay quiet when your own school is under attack, then when will you speak up?” Malala posed.
He said Rachel Ruto is not just a former student but also the alumni association patron and should have stepped in long ago.
Ruto, Be a Father to These Children
Malala didn’t stop at the First Lady—he also addressed President William Ruto directly. He said the government must treat students with care, not fear.
“You cannot intimidate children using force and teargas. That’s not leadership,” Malala said.
He argued that the President should show compassion instead of allowing a culture of fear in schools.
Malala Defends His Script
At the same event, Malala dismissed the claim that the controversial play was tampered with. He clarified that the script was approved by officials from the Ministry of Education.
“I gave the students the full script as promised. We made only a few edits—nothing major,” he said.
He insisted that nine adjudicators vetted and praised the play before it was scheduled to be performed.
Drama That Shook the Nation
Butere Girls has been in the spotlight after their play was pulled from the National Drama Festivals in Nakuru. The students claimed they were harassed and that their mentor, Malala, had been unfairly arrested.
The issue has sparked nationwide debate, with many calling out the government for suppressing student creativity and freedom of expression.
