Police behind assault on journalists over 'Echoes of War' play to face action - NPS

The National Police Service (NPS) has condemned the attacks on journalists and students that occurred on Wednesday and Thursday during a standoff over the controversial Echoes of War play, which was set to be performed by Butere Girls High School at the National Drama Festivals in Nakuru.

During the incident, police officers reportedly lobbed teargas canisters and assaulted both journalists and students as they blocked the play's writer from accessing Kirobon Girls High School, the venue of the festival.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the NPS said the matter is under investigation and that any officer found culpable will face disciplinary action.

"NPS wishes to emphasise that any unprofessional conduct by police officers including obstruction, intimidation, harassment, or interference with journalists performing their duties will not be tolerated. Any officer found in breach of these standards will face disciplinary action in accordance with the law," the statement read.

The government has come under sharp criticism from various quarters over the alleged harassment of the Echoes of War cast during the drama festivals.

ODM Secretary General Edwin Sifuna condemned the actions of the police, saying the incident undermines freedom of expression as guaranteed under Kenyan law.

"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," he said.

Amnesty International Kenya also weighed in, describing the conduct of the police officers as unlawful and reflective of a growing pattern of state-sponsored repression.

"By targeting a school play performed by children, the state is criminalizing creativity and turning cultural spaces into zones of fear and censorship," Amnesty said.

"This brazen attack undermines children’s right to participate in society through art—a right enshrined in both Kenyan law and international human rights standards."

The Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) also released a statement, indicating that it is closely monitoring the situation and will conduct impartial investigations into the matter.

"If any officer is found criminally responsible, IPOA will recommend prosecution or disciplinary action. These recommendations will be promptly submitted to the relevant authorities," the statement said.