The long-awaited Sharon Otieno murder verdict has finally been delivered, marking a major milestone in one of Kenya’s most closely watched murder trials. Former Migori Governor Okoth Obado, his former personal assistant Michael Oyamo, and former Migori County Clerk Caspal Obiero have all been convicted of the murder of Rongo University student Sharon Otieno.
The judgment, delivered by Justice Cecilia Githua at the High Court’s Criminal Division in Nairobi, comes nearly eight years after Sharon’s killing in September 2018 and marks the conclusion of a lengthy trial that attracted nationwide attention.
From Lexus to Prison Van
The dramatic events of the day highlighted the sharp turn in Okoth Obado’s fortunes.
Obado arrived at Milimani Law Courts in his Lexus and was warmly welcomed by supporters gathered outside the court. Smiling and greeting those present, he appeared calm as he entered the courtroom to hear the judgment.
Hours later, the atmosphere had completely changed.
After Justice Cecilia Githua pronounced all three accused guilty of murder, emotions filled the courtroom. Members of Sharon Otieno’s family quietly received the decision while supporters of the convicted men were visibly devastated.
The prosecution immediately requested that the court revoke the accused persons’ bond terms, arguing that following conviction for a capital offence, they posed a flight risk.
Justice Githua agreed, cancelling their bonds and ordering that Obado, Oyamo and Obiero be remanded in custody pending sentencing. Court officers later escorted the former governor from the courtroom to a prison van.
How the Court Reached the Sharon Otieno Murder Verdict
Sharon Otieno, a 26-year-old Rongo University student, was abducted and murdered on the night of September 3, 2018, in Homa Bay County while she was approximately 28 weeks pregnant.
During the trial, the prosecution presented:
- 42 witnesses
- 81 documentary and physical exhibits
- Extensive forensic and circumstantial evidence
Although no witness directly saw the murder take place, Justice Githua ruled that the chain of circumstantial evidence overwhelmingly established the guilt of the three accused beyond reasonable doubt.
According to the court:
- Okoth Obado financed and orchestrated the murder.
- Michael Oyamo played a central role in executing the plan.
- Caspal Obiero participated in efforts to conceal the crime.
The judge held that their coordinated actions demonstrated common intention and malice aforethought.
Justice Githua also rejected Obado’s defence that he had accepted Sharon’s pregnancy and continued supporting her financially. Instead, the court found that he became increasingly evasive once the relationship threatened to become public.
The court further ruled that Obado’s absence from the actual crime scene did not absolve him of criminal responsibility because the prosecution had proved he participated in planning and facilitating the murder.
What Happens Next
Following the convictions, the High Court ordered that:
- Pre-sentence reports be prepared.
- Victim impact assessment reports be filed.
- All three convicts remain in custody until sentencing.
Justice Githua scheduled sentencing for August 18, 2026.
The prosecution successfully argued that after the murder conviction, the three men presented a significant flight risk and should not be released on bail or bond.
Reactions to the Verdict
Sharon Otieno’s family welcomed the judgment, describing it as long-overdue justice after nearly eight years of legal proceedings.
Family lawyer Victor Hezekiah thanked the court for what he termed a fair judicial process, saying the family had endured years of emotional pain while waiting for justice.
Women’s rights organisations also welcomed the conviction, describing it as an important moment in Kenya’s fight against gender-based violence and femicide.
The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) said the verdict reaffirmed its commitment to prosecuting serious crimes professionally and ensuring justice for victims and their families.
A Case That Captivated Kenya
The murder of Sharon Otieno became one of Kenya’s most high-profile criminal cases because it involved a sitting governor, allegations of abuse of power, and the killing of a young university student who was expecting a child.
The case sparked national debate on the protection of women, accountability for public officials, and the effectiveness of Kenya’s criminal justice system.
Although the convictions resolve the trial stage of the case, sentencing remains pending, and the convicted persons retain the legal right to appeal the High Court’s decision after sentencing.
Daily Report KE will continue following developments ahead of the August 18, 2026 sentencing.
