Respect court orders, CJ Koome warns after Butere Girls 'saga'

Chief Justice Martha Koome has raised concern over the events that occurred during the Kenya National Drama Festival in Nakuru, where students from Butere Girls High School were reportedly blocked from participating in defiance of a court order.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the CJ termed the incident a direct challenge to the rule of law and urged state officials to respect judicial decisions.

Koome highlighted that the High Court had given express instructions allowing 50 students from Butere Girls to take part in the festival and perform their play titled Echoes of War.

The court ruling stemmed from a case filed under the name Anifa Mango v Principal, Butere Girls High School & 3 Others, Petition No. E006 of 2025 and was delivered by the High Court in Kisii.

"It is particularly disturbing that these events occurred against the backdrop of clear and binding court orders issued by the High Court sitting in Kisii," Koome said.

Despite the court's directive, the school and festival organisers allegedly failed to ensure the students’ participation.

The Chief Justice criticized the non-compliance, stressing that ignoring court orders damages the country’s democratic foundation.

"Defiance of court orders not only undermines the authority of the courts but also poses a serious threat to the rule of law, which is the bedrock of our society," she stated.

Koome also expressed deep concern over reports that force and violence may have been used against the students.

She said such actions raise important constitutional issues, especially regarding the treatment and protection of children, who hold special status under Kenya’s laws and international agreements.

The Chief Justice urged government bodies and public officials to honour their constitutional duty by implementing court decisions fully.

"Respect for court orders is not optional. It is a constitutional imperative that safeguards our collective commitment to the rule of law," she noted.

In her concluding remarks, Koome described Thursday’s events as a step away from legal responsibility and a violation of the rights of children, who deserve protection and fairness in all areas of life.