High Court Reinstates Butere Girls' Drama Team to Nationals After 'Echoes of War' Ban"

Butere Girls Drama Team Makes Triumphant Comeback After Controversial Ban – Court Overrules State

​The High Court has directed Butere Girls High School to reinstate its drama team and facilitate their participation in the National Drama Festivals, scheduled to commence on April 7, 2025, in Nakuru County. This ruling follows the school's initial decision to send the 50 drama students home, reportedly after receiving directives from State House to bar their play, Echoes of War, from the competon. The play, which highlights the struggles of young people globally, was allegedly deemed potentially embarrassing to First Lady Rachael Ruto, an alumna of the school. ​ The court's intervention ensures that the students can showcase their performance at the national level. Justice Fridah Okwany ordered the school principal to recall the students and facilitate their participation in the festival. ​ This incident mirrors a similar situation in 2013 when Butere Girls' play, Shackles of Doom, faced a ban due to its themes on resource allocation and nepotism. The High Court lifted the ban, allowing the play to be performed at the national festival, where it received a standing ovation. ​ With the recent court ruling, Echoes of War is set to be performed at the upcoming National Drama Festivals, allowing the students to present their work on a national platform.