Cleophas Malala has vowed to sue the government for contempt of court after his play Echoes of War failed to be staged at the 63rd National Drama and Film Festival.
The former Senator's legal team also hinted filing a petition before the International Court regarding the violations of children's rights, including the teargassing of minors
Speaking exclusively to TNX Africa, his lawyer, Ken Echesa, said, "We will cite the authorities for contempt of court, and then we will consider filing a petition before the International Court regarding the violations of children's rights, including the teargassing of minors. This is unacceptable both under national law and international law."
This development comes after Malala was released unconditionally from Eldama Ravine, where he had been held incommunicado.
Regarding the legality of Malala's arrest, Echesa stated, "There was mischief and malice. After the Butere girls were frustrated and left the ground, they were escorted to Kakamega by a police escort. It was then that Malala was released."
"Even when they were about to perform, Malala was transferred from Nakuru to Eldama Ravine," he added.
Echoes of War has gained international attention from stakeholders, activists, and politicians, with many criticizing the government for preventing the play from being staged.
On Thursday morning, security officers used tear gas to disperse a crowd protesting the treatment of the Butere Girls High School drama team, who were scheduled to perform. The students were caught in the crowd and rushed back to their bus, with some falling in the process.
However, the students refused to perform, instead demanding the release of Malala, who directs the play.
In defense of the government, Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba stated that the government did not ban Butere Girls' School from staging Echoes of War.
Speaking in Mombasa during the high school sports games, he explained, "When it was time for the students to take the stage, one of them stepped forward and announced that they would not perform without their director."
Since his release, Malala has stated that the play will be staged publicly by adult citizens.
