The succession process at Kakamega School has been thrown into turmoil following the retirement of its principal, with political rivalries stalling two successive appointments.
Senende Boys High School Principal Tom Shavitsa was initially tipped to take over.
However, his transfer was reportedly blocked by a powerful politician in Kakamega County, who accused area MP Lurambi MP Titus Khamala of having vested interests in the process.
The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) subsequently revoked Shavitsa’s transfer.
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Attention then shifted to Dr. Aliva Luvaso, head of Malava Boys High School, who received a transfer letter to Kakamega School.
However, drew opposition from the school’s Board of Management and alumni.
Although Kakamega Senator Khalwale publicly congratulated Luvaso, it is reported that TSC swiftly rescinded his appointment.
Khalwale, in his August 11 Facebook post, expressed optimism about the new leadership, saying, “We thank the government for posting Dr. Elfas Aliba to Kakamega High School as the new principal. Musingu High School is now stable, Mukumu Girls High is now stable, Kakamega High School will now be stable. We are happy.”
Political manoeuvring has intensified, with MP Khamala’s faction pushing for Shavitsa’s reinstatement.
However, impeccable sources indicate that both Khalwale and Khamala risk losing out, paving the way for a neutral candidate. Possible names include Chrispinus Owino, Chief Principal of St. Peter’s Mumias Boys High School, and Habil Malika, Principal of Butere Boys High School.
Kakamega School, one of Kenya’s largest and most prestigious national institutions, remains without a substantive principal as the TSC navigates the political deadlock.
Deputy principal Kakamega High School Ramadhan Issa now heads Sidikho Secondary in Navakholo, replacing Wandera Isaac in the latest TSC transfers.
Dr Julius Mambili retired as Chief Principal of Kakamega High on July 31, 2025.
By Godfrey Wamalwa
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