The sentencing of former Migori Governor Okoth Obado and his two co-convicts in the murder of Sharon Otieno has been deferred to November 27, 2026.
The decision was made at the Milimani High Court on Wednesday, September 16, after the court completed submissions from the parties.
Justice Cecilia Githua said the court would consider the submissions and other material before delivering the sentencing ruling.
Sharon Otieno’s Parents Plead for Mercy
The sentencing proceedings took an unexpected turn when Sharon Otieno’s parents asked the court to consider a non-custodial sentence for Obado.
Through their lawyer, Douglas Otieno and Melinda Ouma told the court that they had forgiven the former governor and supported reconciliation.
They asked the court to consider placing Obado on probation, while also urging him to support Sharon’s four children.
Sharon’s father also expressed a different view regarding Obado’s two co-convicts, Michael Oyamo and Caspal Obiero. He told the court that he remained bitter towards the two men and wanted them to face custodial sentences.
Court Proceedings Temporarily Adjourned
Earlier in the proceedings, Sharon’s parents requested an interpreter to help them fully participate in the mitigation hearing.
The court temporarily adjourned the proceedings to facilitate their request. The court was also considering victim impact material and submissions from the prosecution and defence teams.
Prosecution’s Position
The prosecution has maintained that Sharon’s murder was a serious offence against the state and society. The State argued that the court should consider the wider public interest when determining the appropriate punishment.
The parents’ request for leniency is therefore one of several factors before the court as it considers sentencing.
Obado and Co-Accused Were Convicted in July
Obado, Oyamo and Obiero were convicted of Sharon Otieno’s murder on July 23, 2026. Justice Githua found that the prosecution had proved its case against the three beyond reasonable doubt.
The court found that the three played different roles in the crime and acted with a common intention. Following their conviction, the court cancelled their bond terms and ordered that they remain in custody pending sentencing.
Sharon Otieno Murder Case
Sharon Otieno was a Rongo University student whose murder in September 2018 led to an investigation and an almost eight-year court process.
Her family has previously told the court about the financial and emotional impact of the murder and the lengthy legal proceedings.
A victim impact report cited expenses related to the funeral, travel and the prolonged court case. It also highlighted the needs of Sharon’s children and parents. The High Court will now deliver the sentencing ruling on November 27, 2026.
