Sharon Otieno’s Father Explains Why He Forgave Obado but Not His Co-Accused

Sharon Otieno’s father, Douglas Otieno, has told the court why he has forgiven former Migori Governor Okoth Obado but continues to hold his co-accused responsible for his daughter’s death.

Appearing before the High Court during the sentencing proceedings, Douglas explained that his decision to forgive Obado was based on his perception of the former governor’s conduct following Sharon’s murder.

However, he expressed disappointment with Michael Oyamo and Caspal Obiero, who were also convicted in connection with the killing.

“Oyamo and Casper are the people who met my daughter last. They are not remorseful,” Douglas told the court.

Sharon, who was pregnant at the time of her death, was murdered in September 2018 in a case that attracted national attention.

Her father’s remarks highlighted the different feelings within the family regarding the three convicted men. 

While he has chosen to forgive Obado, he said he could not extend the same forgiveness to Oyamo and Obiero, whom he associated with the final moments of Sharon’s life.

The court is considering mitigation submissions and victim impact statements before determining the sentences for the convicted individuals.

Douglas’s statement comes shortly after Sharon’s mother, Melida Auma, appealed to the court not to impose a harsh sentence on Obado, saying she did not want to experience another painful loss.

The family’s views are expected to form part of the broader sentencing proceedings as the court weighs the circumstances of the case and the impact of Sharon’s death on her loved ones.