By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, April 7, 2026 - The Central Organisation of Trade Unions (COTU) has thrown its weight behind new government guidelines regulating content in school drama festivals, warning against the growing use of students in political messaging.
In a statement dated April 7, COTU Secretary General Francis Atwoli said the move is necessary to protect learners from exploitation, even as debates continue over the limits of artistic expression in schools.
“As a responsible trade union movement… such platforms must not be abused to advance political agendas at the expense of the welfare and development of learners,” the statement read.
COTU acknowledged the important role of drama and creative arts in shaping young people but stressed that schools should remain spaces for learning, not political contestation.
The organisation expressed concern over what it described as a rising trend of politically influenced scripts, warning that learners are increasingly being drawn into narratives driven by external actors.
“Learners are drawn into politically charged narratives… exposing them to manipulation and exploitation,” Atwoli said.
It further noted that some performances in recent years have taken on themes that are divisive and disruptive, raising questions about their impact on students’ well-being and academic focus.
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“The attempt to transform students into political activists… is both inappropriate and unacceptable,” the statement added.
COTU said the introduction of clear guidelines to curb propaganda and political messaging is both timely and necessary, urging all stakeholders to support their implementation.
The union called on teachers, parents, school administrators and festival organisers to ensure the rules are upheld, emphasising that the primary role of schools must remain education and development.
The statement comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding this year’s national drama festivals, where questions have been raised about the influence of political content in student performances.