Atwoli Backs New School Drama Rules, Calls for Protection of Students from Political Influence

The Central Organization of Trade Unions (COTU-K) has backed the government’s new rules on school drama festivals. The union says these measures protect students from being used for political purposes.

Speaking on Tuesday, COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli said the 2026 Kenya National Drama and Film Festival guidelines are meant to keep politics out of schools. “We have noticed some children being used by politicians to gain influence. This must stop,” he said.

Atwoli stressed that school plays should remain a space for creativity, learning, and self-expression. “Art is important for young people. But it should never be used to push political agendas or attack public institutions,” he added.

The union raised concerns about external influences on school performances. Some plays, they say, have been written to deliver political messages and involve learners in issues beyond their understanding. “We oppose the trend of turning students into political tools under the guise of drama,” Atwoli said.

The move follows the 2025 drama festival controversy involving Butere Girls’ play Echoes of War. The play was disqualified at the regional level due to its political content but later reinstated by a High Court decision. COTU sees such incidents as proof that clearer rules are necessary to protect children.

According to the union, politically charged plays can harm students’ well-being and distract from learning. “Some scripts have become divisive and misleading. They affect learners’ focus and growth,” the statement reads.

COTU called on teachers, parents, festival organisers, and school administrators to implement the rules fully. The union wants the guidelines enforced so students can enjoy drama festivals safely and creatively.

As the 2026 festival season starts at Kagumo Teachers College in Nyeri County, the union hopes the new rules will create a fair environment. Atwoli concluded that school drama should nurture talent and critical thinking, not advance political agendas.

“Let us ensure drama inspires students, rather than using them as pawns in political battles,” he said.