The controversial play “Echoes of War” by Butere Girls High School has continued to generate significant developments since the disruptions at the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival (KNDFF) in Nakuru.

Despite a court order allowing the performance, the aftermath has been marked by accusations, denials, and ongoing uncertainty.

Despite being scheduled to perform on Thursday, April 10, 2025, the students of Butere Girls High School did not stage their play at the Melvin Jones Academy.

Reports indicate that the students took to the stage, sang the national anthem, and then exited in tears, citing police harassment and a lack of proper staging equipment.

They also demanded the presence of their director, former Senator Cleophas Malala, who had been arrested.

Here are 5 major things that have happened so far:

1. Government Denies Action Against School Leadership

Following the events, speculation arose that the Ministry of Education had taken disciplinary action against the Board of Management and Principal of Butere Girls High School.

However, Basic Education Principal Secretary Prof. Julius Bitok issued an official statement dismissing these claims.

He emphasized that no action had been taken and that the Ministry would conduct a thorough review of the circumstances.

2. CS Ogamba Faults School for Engaging Non-Teacher Director

Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba has since sharply criticized the Butere Girls High School administration.

He stated that allowing former UDA Party Secretary-General Cleophas Malala, a non-teacher, to direct “Echoes of War” was a clear violation of the KNDFF rules and regulations, which stipulate that only TSC-registered teachers or qualified lecturers can train or direct student performances.

3. TSC Kakamega Director Corroborates No Immediate Action

The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Kakamega County Director, Wilson Koros, also refuted claims of any transfer or disciplinary action initiated against the Butere Girls’ Principal or Board of Management, acknowledging awareness of online reports but stating they were untrue.

4. Review of Festival Rules and Stricter Compliance Promised:

While denying immediate disciplinary action, Principal Secretary Prof. Bitok emphasized that the existing rules and regulations governing the KNDFF will be reviewed.

He stated that stricter compliance measures will be enforced in the future to prevent similar incidents, particularly regarding the involvement of unregistered individuals in directing student performances.

The situation surrounding “Echoes of War” remains complex, with the government acknowledging a breach of regulations while investigations into the broader circumstances surrounding the disruptions continue.

The fate of the play and any potential repercussions for the school administration are still uncertain.