Melida Auma, mother of the late Rongo University student Sharon Otieno, has opened up about the family’s difficult eight-year ordeal following the High Court’s recent conviction of former Migori Governor Okoth Obado and two others for her daughter’s murder.

In a statement made days after the judgment, Auma described the heavy emotional, social, and psychological impact the prolonged case has had on her family. "The family has been grieving throughout, and even after the judgment, the sorrow remains. But with faith, we believe there is life beyond death," she said.

She highlighted the challenges faced during the lengthy legal process, noting the strain on their social and economic well-being as well as the psychological distress caused by public scrutiny. "Social media bullying made it seem as if Sharon was not someone’s daughter or deserving of dignity," Auma lamented.

Though the court has delivered its verdict, Auma emphasized that this marks the start of a new chapter for her family rather than an end. While refraining from commenting directly on the court’s ruling, she expressed her belief that justice had been served. "The court’s judgment reflects what God saw, and personally, I have mourned my daughter enough," she stated.

As a Christian, she also shared that she has forgiven those involved in the crime.

Background of the Case

  • On July 23, Justice Cecilia Githua found Obado, his former assistant Michael Oyamo, and ex-Migori County clerk Caspal Obiero guilty of Sharon’s murder.
  • The conviction was based on a strong chain of circumstantial evidence presented by the prosecution.
  • Sharon Otieno, 26 and seven months pregnant, was abducted in September 2018 alongside journalist Barrack Oduor, who escaped by jumping from the vehicle.
  • Her body was discovered near Kodera Forest in Homa Bay County, sparking one of Kenya’s most high-profile murder trials.

Following the convictions, the High Court revoked the bond terms for the three accused and remanded them in custody pending sentencing and preparation of related reports.