Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has sought to set the record straight on the government’s position regarding artistic expression in schools, insisting that his office does not support censorship and is committed to upholding free speech.
Speaking during his Jukwaa La Usalama county tour in Tana River, Murkomen dismissed claims that the State was targeting Butere Girls High School over their drama festival piece, Echoes of War. He clarified that his remarks had been misinterpreted and that his concerns were not about the play itself but about political interference in school spaces.
“I never condemned the play ‘Echoes of War’,” he said. “All I am saying is that our teachers are best suited to handle students as per their professional training, including adherence to the code of conduct.”
The CS emphasized that the government was not threatened by the content of the play or any other artistic work, and reaffirmed his respect for literature and drama as vital tools in education.
“Like many of us, I studied literature and I know the important role it plays,” he said. “I am a full supporter of freedom of speech and media so long as there is no hate, insults or glorification of crime in it.”
His comments follow public uproar and concern over the treatment of Butere Girls students and journalists, after police reportedly used tear gas during rehearsals of Echoes of War. The CS has since issued an apology over the incident and promised accountability.
“I will ensure action is taken against any officers who used excessive force,” Murkomen said.
