Kericho Governor Eric Mutai, who also chairs the Education Committee in the Council of Governors, has spoken strongly about the recent controversy surrounding Butere Girls High School Principal, Jennifer Omondi.
He warned that Omondi must take full responsibility for her actions and be prepared to face the consequences over the staging of the controversial play Echoes of War.
While addressing mourners during the funeral of former minister John Koech, Governor Mutai expressed concern over attempts by some individuals to protect the principal from being transferred.
He made it clear that shielding her was wrong and that she must be held accountable for failing to act as a responsible leader.
“It bothers me to see people uniting just to oppose the transfer of the Butere Girls Principal. Leaders must own up to their responsibilities. If you’re in charge of an institution, you should review all content before allowing it to be showcased.
If you’re unsure about anything, consult the relevant department heads. Leadership comes with responsibility, and every decision you make has consequences,” Mutai stated.
The governor’s statement comes in the wake of claims that Principal Omondi had been moved to Wajir Day Secondary School, ending her years of service at Butere Girls, a top national school. However, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has come out to deny these reports.
According to Kakamega County TSC Director Wilson Koros, no official communication had been issued concerning her transfer.
“As it stands, there has been no formal notice about the transfer of Butere Girls’ principal. I’ve also seen those reports online, but they are false,” Koros told The Standard on April 11.
Despite this official statement from the TSC, Governor Mutai’s remarks suggest growing pressure from some government-aligned leaders who believe Omondi should be removed for allowing a play that has sparked national debate.
The play Echoes of War was scheduled to be performed by students from Butere Girls during the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival in Nakuru.
However, it triggered chaos when police blocked the students from presenting it. The incident escalated into a confrontation that saw police use teargas, as students and onlookers clashed with security forces.
Loud chants of “Ruto Must Go” filled the air, turning what was meant to be a cultural event into a politically charged scene.
Governor Mutai condemned the use of schoolchildren to push political narratives. He found it troubling that students being taught by government-employed teachers, and learning in government-run institutions, could end up chanting anti-government slogans.
He also criticized Cleophas Malala, the former Kakamega Senator and the playwright behind Echoes of War, accusing him of manipulating students to advance his own political interests.
More than a week after the drama unfolded, the administration of Butere Girls High School, including Principal Omondi, has yet to publicly comment on the matter.
Their silence continues to raise questions amid the rising tensions and political scrutiny.
This incident has stirred national conversation around the role of educators, student expression, and the boundaries between politics and school activities.
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