President William Ruto has strongly criticized former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, the playwright behind the controversial Butere Girls’ High School drama, Echoes of War, vowing that his administration will safeguard children from what he termed as “negative antics.”

Addressing attendees at the festival’s State Concert held at State House, Nakuru, Ruto issued a stern warning to individuals he accused of using artistic platforms to manipulate young minds for political gain.

“As a leader and a parent, I must say this — we must protect our children from pedophiles, drug peddlers, and predators who want to corrupt our children,” Ruto said.

“We must reject those trying to poison our youth with negative ethnicity and divisive politics.”

The Head of State also called on parents, teachers, and education stakeholders to remain vigilant, emphasizing that his government will not tolerate attempts to exploit children for political mileage.

“I will not allow this nation to be dragged down by individuals chasing selfish, narrow interests,” he added.

The play sparked a national debate due to its central theme – a Gen Z uprising against an oppressive regime – and has drawn speculation that it alludes to the current government, stirring political controversy.