High Court Orders Inclusion of Butere Girls in National Drama Festivals, Bars St. Mary’s Kibabii
Judges Rule Against “Malicious Exclusion”; Officials Face Fines, Contempt Charges
_High Court Rebukes Regional Education Director Over Exclusion of Butere Girls from Drama Festivals_
Justice Orders Immediate Inclusion, Warns of Dire Consequences for Non-Compliance
The High Court has sharply criticized the Western Region Director of Education, Mr. Jared Obiero, for what it termed as the unjust, irregular, and malicious exclusion of Butere Girls High School from this year’s National Drama Festivals.
In a strongly worded ruling, Justice Winfridah Okwany directed Mr. Obiero and the school’s Chief Principal, Ms. 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—allegedly as part of a deliberate scheme to sideline Butere Girls.
The matter is scheduled for mention on 9th May 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 favor of the students, both Mr. Obiero and Ms. Omondi may face substantial legal costs and be held personally liable for the infringement of the constitutional rights of the students, their teachers, and the playwright.
Justice Okwany further warned that any defiance of the court’s orders would amount to contempt of court, a serious offense punishable by imprisonment and/or a fine not exceeding KSh 2 million for each of the respondents.
