Teacher Faces Disciplinary Action Over ‘Echoes of War’ Script Alteration at Butere Girls
The principal of Butere Girls High School has issued a show cause letter to a teacher accused of altering the script of the controversial play Echoes of War during the Regional Drama Festivals.
In the letter dated March 25 and seen by Nairobian, the principal alleges that the teacher deviated from the approved script presented earlier at the County Level Festival at Bulimbo Girls High School on March 18. The revised version, performed at Chavakali High School during the regional round on March 22, reportedly contained unauthorized scenes with political overtones.
Specifically, the principal cited performances where students held up banners with slogans like “Occupy Space,” “SHA,” and “Cash Cow” — messages perceived to reflect anti-government sentiments. “You are therefore asked to show cause why disciplinary action should not be taken against you for altering the original script to make the play reflect anti-government themes,” the letter reads in part.
The teacher has been given seven days to respond in writing, failing which disciplinary action may be taken. The letter has also been copied to several key officials including the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Secretary, County and Sub-County Directors, and the school’s Board of Management Chairperson.
This development adds yet another chapter to the mounting controversy surrounding Echoes of War, a politically-charged play exploring themes of governance, youth activism, and technology. The play was previously banned from performance but later reinstated following a High Court ruling.
The situation escalated further when the play’s writer, former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, was briefly detained by police. In protest, Butere Girls students refused to perform the play until he was released. Malala was later freed, allowing the drama festival to proceed.
The disciplinary action now being considered against the teacher raises fresh concerns about censorship and freedom of expression in school-based creative arts.
Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has since weighed in on the matter. While defending the government against allegations of censorship, he reiterated that political actors should not interfere in students’ education.
“The government has no issue with Echoes of War or any script,” Murkomen said. “However, political involvement in school activities undermines the integrity of education.”
The incident has sparked nationwide conversation on the delicate balance between artistic freedom and responsible education, especially in an election-sensitive environment.
As the teacher prepares their response, eyes remain fixed on how the school, the TSC, and the government will handle this sensitive issue going forward.
In other news:Drama in Nakuru as Police Probe Attack on Cleophas Malala and Vandalism of His Vehicle
Teacher Faces Disciplinary Action Over ‘Echoes of War’ Script Alteration at Butere Girls