Governor Mutai Breaks Silence on Butere Girls’ Principal’s Transfer After ‘Echoes of War’ Controversy
Chair of Education in the Council of Governors and Kericho Governor, Dr. Eric Mutai, has issued a stern warning to Butere Girls’ High School Principal, Ms. Jennifer Omondi, urging her to take full responsibility for the consequences arising from the performance of the play Echoes of War by her school.
Speaking during the burial of former Minister John Koech, Governor Mutai criticized those who have allegedly shielded the principal from a transfer. He emphasized that leadership roles require accountability and proactive oversight.
“It is troubling when people unite to oppose the transfer of the Butere Girls’ principal. Leadership demands responsibility. If entrusted with the management of an institution, one must be aware of all activities taking place, including school productions,” said Governor Mutai. “If anything is unclear, clarification should be sought through the proper channels. Every action has consequences.”
The governor’s remarks come in the wake of speculation that Ms. Omondi had already been transferred to Wajir Day Secondary School. However, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has refuted these claims.
“There is no official communication regarding the transfer of the Butere Girls’ principal,” stated Kakamega County TSC Director, Mr. Wilson Koros, in a statement to The Standard on April 11. “I have seen the reports online, but they are inaccurate. She remains in her current position.”
Despite the TSC’s clarification, Governor Mutai’s statements reflect growing discontent among government allies over the play, which has sparked national debate.
Echoes of War was scheduled to be performed at the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival in Nakuru. However, the event was marred by chaos after police prevented the students from taking the stage. The confrontation escalated, resulting in the use of teargas and student protests, including chants of “Ruto Must Go.”
Governor Mutai expressed concern over the political nature of the incident. He condemned the use of students—who are taught and managed within government institutions—to propagate political messages against the President.
In addition, he criticized the play’s writer, former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, accusing him of exploiting students for political gain.
Nearly a week after the incident, the school’s administration, including Principal Omondi, has yet to make an official statement regarding the matter.
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Governor Mutai Breaks Silence on Butere Girls’ Principal’s Transfer After ‘Echoes of War’ Controversy
