Former Migori Governor Okoth Obado has appealed to the High Court for a lenient sentence following his conviction for the murder of Rongo University student Sharon Otieno. Obado cited his advanced age, health challenges, and the lengthy duration of the trial as grounds for mercy.
A pre-sentence social inquiry report presented in court on Tuesday revealed that Obado is seeking a non-custodial sentence. During interviews, he denied involvement in Sharon's death but acknowledged a past intimate relationship with her.
Obado expressed respect for the court's verdict but maintained his innocence concerning the murder charges. He also showed remorse over Sharon's death and indicated willingness to support her family and pursue reconciliation.
The report highlighted that Obado has no prior criminal record and suffers from hypertension, with complaints of left shoulder pain. He also committed to taking responsibility for Sharon's unborn child, pending DNA confirmation, and disclosed that his former aide, Michael Oyamo, managed communications with Sharon.
Significantly, Sharon Otieno's family informed probation officers that they do not oppose a lenient sentence for Obado. They cited continued support from the former governor and expressed openness to reconciliation, requesting that Obado be allowed to fulfill promises made to Sharon's parents to ease their financial hardships.
The High Court will consider the probation report, the victim impact statement, and submissions from both prosecution and defense before issuing a sentence. Sentencing proceedings are scheduled to resume on September 16, 2026.
