Kenya, April 12 -- Cleophas Malala, a prominent political figure, was reportedly attacked at a nightclub in Nakuru late Friday night, sources confirm.

Eyewitnesses claim a group of assailants confronted Malala, leading to a violent altercation. His vehicle was also vandalised during the incident, sustaining significant damage.

Local police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack, with no arrests reported at this time.

Malala has not issued a public statement regarding the incident, and further details remain scarce. However, his driver claims that he had goons chanting something like starting a war before the incident happened.

The former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malalah and William Ruto's PA Farouk Kibet allegedly engaged in an altercation yesterday at a nightclub in Nakuru before Malala's car ended up vandalised.

Former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala finds himself at the centre of a storm surrounding Echoes of War, a controversial play he wrote and directed for Butere Girls High School.

The production, which critiques governance and highlights youth activism, has sparked nationwide debate after a series of dramatic events at the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival in Nakuru.

On Wednesday, April 9, Malala was reportedly blocked by police from accessing Kirobon Girls High School, where the Butere Girls team was rehearsing.

Tensions escalated when he was detained by authorities, prompting the students to boycott their scheduled performance on Thursday, April 10.

The girls, citing harassment and lack of resources like sound equipment and stage decor, walked off the stage in tears, singing the national anthem in protest.

The play, initially banned for its politically sensitive content, was reinstated following a High Court ruling on April 3, which upheld the students' right to perform.

However, Malala's arrest and claims of intimidation have reignited accusations of censorship. "I empathize with the students who gave their all to expose societal issues through art," Malala said from Eldama Ravine Police Station after his release on Thursday.

Education CS Julius Ogamba stated that Malala's involvement violated festival rules, as only registered teachers are permitted to direct students.

Critics, including former Baringo Senator Gideon Moi, have condemned the government's handling of the situation, calling the play "a bold satire" that reflects the frustrations of Kenya's youth.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.