In an unprecedented show of unity, all students participating in the ongoing Kenya National Drama and Film Festival have declined to perform, citing solidarity with Butere Girls High School. The protest follows the controversial disqualification of Butere Girls’ powerful play, which reportedly touched on sensitive social and political issues, including governance, justice, and youth activism.
The decision by the students has sent shockwaves through the Ministry of Education and the festival’s organizing committee. Reports indicate that the boycott was not coordinated by teachers but driven purely by the students, who demanded fairness and freedom of expression within the arts.
“We stand with Butere. If their voices are silenced, ours don’t matter either,” read one placard held by a group of students outside the venue.
Butere Girls had earlier stunned audiences with their play, which many described as “truthful and courageous.” However, the play was controversially removed from the competition lineup, allegedly for breaching unspecified guidelines.
Festival organizers have remained tight-lipped, while the Ministry of Education is under pressure to issue a statement. Meanwhile, the student-led protest has gained traction online, with Kenyans praising the youth for standing up against censorship and calling for accountability within the education system.
By Kenyan