The High Court has criticized the Western Region Director of Education, Jared Obiero, for the unjust, irregular, and malicious exclusion of Butere Girls High School from this year’s National Drama Festivals.
In a decisive ruling, Justice Winfrida Okwany directed Obiero and the school’s Chief Principal, Jennipher Omondi, to ensure the immediate participation of 50 students, their teachers, and the playwright in the upcoming national event.
The court further disqualified St Mary’s Kibabii from the festivals, declaring that the school did not merit qualification and had been wrongfully included as part of a deliberate scheme to sideline Butere Girls.
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The matter is scheduled for mention on May 9, 2025, to provide directions on the hearing of the substantive petition.
Speaking on behalf of the aggrieved parties, counsel Ken Echesa vowed to pursue the matter to its logical and legal conclusion.
Should the court rule in favour of the students, Obiero and Ms Omondi may face substantial legal costs and be personally liable for infringing the constitutional rights of the students, teachers, and the playwright.
Justice Okwany further warned that any defiance of the court’s orders would amount to contempt of court, a serious offence punishable by imprisonment and/or a fine not exceeding KSh 2 million for each respondent.
By Hilda Atika
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