The family of the late Sharon Otieno has publicly addressed the recent High Court verdict that found former Migori Governor Okoth Obado, his former personal assistant Michael Oyamo, and former Migori County Clerk Caspal Obiero guilty of her murder. This judgment has provided them with a sense of comfort after enduring years of heartache.
During a special thanksgiving service at Magare God Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church in Homa Bay County on Saturday, July 25, 2026, Sharon’s parents, Melida Auma and Douglas Otieno, expressed their satisfaction with the court’s decision. They conveyed hope that this verdict would facilitate their healing journey from a tragedy that has haunted their family for nearly eight years.
“It has been a challenging road for us. We have been grieving throughout this ordeal,” stated Sharon’s mother, Melida Auma, during the service.
She also shared the painful reality of enduring years of online harassment following Sharon’s death, emphasizing how this added to their suffering. “The social media bullying feels relentless, as if I’m not a mother, as if those targeting our family are not parents themselves, as if Sharon wasn’t someone’s daughter, as if she didn’t deserve dignity,” she expressed.
Despite the ongoing pain, Auma has chosen the path of forgiveness, guided by her Christian faith. “As a Christian, I have forgiven those who may have played a role in this act, and I find peace in that,” she added.
This thanksgiving service marked the family’s first public appearance since the High Court delivered its landmark verdict convicting Obado, Oyamo, and Obiero for the brutal murder of Sharon.
Sharon Otieno, a 26-year-old student at Rongo University, was tragically murdered in September 2018 while heavily pregnant. Her death shocked the nation, especially after allegations surfaced linking her romantically to then-Migori Governor Obado. On September 4, 2018, her body was discovered in a thicket near Kodera Forest in Homa Bay County, bearing multiple stab wounds. The case evolved into one of Kenya’s most closely followed murder trials, culminating in the recent convictions.
During the church service, family members acknowledged that while they can never reverse the loss of Sharon, they believe justice has finally been served. They remain hopeful about moving forward with their lives. The family also kindly requested continued prayers as they navigate this new chapter, expressing gratitude that the court’s decision has helped to close a painful chapter while allowing them to cherish the memories of their beloved daughter.
