Kericho Governor Eric Mutai has issued a stern warning to Butere Girls High School Principal, Jennifer Omondi, urging her to take full responsibility for the fallout surrounding the controversial school play Echoes of War.

Speaking at the funeral of former cabinet minister John Koech, Mutai, who also chairs the Education Committee in the Council of Governors, criticized those opposing the principal's alleged transfer and called for accountability in institutional leadership.

“It disturbs me when people come together to oppose the transfer of the Butere Girls’ principal. If you are in charge, you must be responsible. You should have known what the students were presenting—and if unclear, you should have sought clarification,” Mutai said.

His remarks come amid swirling claims that the principal had been transferred to Wajir Day Secondary School following the uproar over the performance. However, the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has denied those reports.

“There is no official communication regarding any transfer of the Butere Girls' principal,” said Kakamega County TSC Director Wilson Koros on April 11.

Despite the TSC’s clarification, Governor Mutai’s statements suggest pressure from government allies who believe the principal should face consequences for allowing the politically charged play to be staged.

The play Echoes of War—performed during the Kenya National Drama and Film Festival in Nakuru—sparked national debate and was controversially blocked by police. Tensions escalated at the venue, with students reportedly engaging in anti-government chants and chaos ensuing between them and security forces.

Mutai condemned the situation, saying it was unacceptable for public school students, taught by teachers paid by the government, to be caught up in what he described as political activism.

He also criticized former Kakamega Senator Cleophas Malala, who is linked to the play’s script, accusing him of manipulating students for political gain.

Nearly a week after the incident, school officials—including the principal—have yet to comment publicly, further fueling speculation and political pressure surrounding the matter.