BUTERE GIRLS PRINCIPAL STILL IN OFFICE, TSC DISPELS TRANSFER CLAIMS

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has denied claims that the principal of Butere Girls High School has been transferred, following public uproar over the school's drama performance titled Echoes of War.

Speaking to the press on Thursday, Kakamega County TSC Director Wilson Koros dismissed the transfer reports as false.

“There is no official communication regarding any transfer of the Butere Girls principal. I have also seen the reports online, but they are not true,” Koros stated. “I am currently in Naivasha for a training alongside my regional director, and I have not authorised such claims. There is nothing even close to that.”

The clarification comes amid controversy sparked by the school's decision to have former UDA Secretary-General Cleophas Malala direct the play, which was showcased during the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival (KNDFF).

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has since condemned the move, accusing the school of breaching festival regulations. In a press statement, Ogamba said the school’s action went against Section 9.0 Note C of the KNDFF guidelines, which only allow TSC-registered teachers or certified lecturers from recognised post-secondary institutions to train or direct student performances.

“We cannot allow people to weaponise school children against authority. Let political wars be fought by politicians outside of learning environments,” Ogamba said.

He further warned school heads across the country against bypassing laid-down TSC policies in co-curricular engagements, adding that such actions risk eroding professionalism and exposing learners to political manipulation.

Ogamba also raised concern over potential violations of KNDFF content rules, which bar hate speech or derogatory material targeting any individual, gender, or community.

Despite the backlash, the Ministry of Education has maintained its commitment to supporting student talent through structured co-curricular programmes while stressing the need for compliance with existing guidelines.

The Butere Girls production, which has stirred national debate, was lauded by some for its bold storytelling, while others criticised its political undertones and direction.