Court orders Nairobi's Gatoto Primary School headteacher to run institution
A signage at Gatoto Community Primary School in Mukuru Kwa Reuben shows where classes are located in this picture taken on 6 January 2025.
The High Court has issued a temporary directive allowing the new headteacher of Gatoto Community Primary School, appointed by the Ministry of Education, to continue overseeing the institution's academic and administrative affairs.
On February 10, 2025, Justice Bahati Mwamuye also tasked the former administrators of the school with managing the school’s feeding programme and paying staff salaries.
The orders, aimed at ensuring stability at the school and protecting the interests of more than 800 children, will remain in force until the case file by former managers of the institution is heard and determined.
In the court order, Justice Mwamuye emphasised the urgency of the matter, citing its potential impact on the children enrolled at the school.
The directive mandates that the headteacher consult with the petitioners on administrative matters while maintaining continuity in daily operations.
Meanwhile, the overall management of the school remains under the oversight of the board of directors and the previous administration.
“Until this case is heard and determined, and a final judgment is delivered, a temporary order is issued directing that the headteacher appointed by the Ministry of Education shall continue managing the school’s daily academic and administrative affairs in consultation with the first and second appellants,” ruled Justice Mwamuye.
The decision was welcomed by the petitioners, who viewed it as a step toward resolving the dispute.
The case will be heard on April 3, 2025 by Justice Mwamuye and the final decision is expected on May 15, 2025.