Former Governor Obado's High-Profile Murder Case Faces Another Delay

The trial of former Migori Governor Okoth Obado accused of the murder of university student Sharon Otieno has encountered another delay.

Originally scheduled for a week-long hearing, the proceedings have been rescheduled to commence on May 6th. This postponement arises from the unfortunate circumstances surrounding one of the accused individuals Caspal Obiero. According to court records, Obiero recently suffered a devastating loss when his wife and child tragically perished in a road accident back in March. The delay in their burial until May is attributed to financial constraints as well as adherence to the Luo cultural practices, which involve pre- and post-rituals following the loss of a spouse.

These rituals are deeply rooted in tradition and require a significant amount of time and preparation. Advocates Meso Ogada and Elisha Ongoya, representing Obiero, informed trial Judge Cecilia Githua that their client's absence from the court was due to his involvement in the funeral preparations. They respectfully requested the court's understanding as Obiero sought to provide his family with a fitting farewell.

The prosecution did not oppose the adjournment, recognizing the gravity of the situation and the importance of allowing Obiero to fulfil his familial and cultural obligations. Justice Githua has subsequently rescheduled the hearing for May 6th and expressed her condolences to the accused. In this high-profile case, Obado along with his assistant Michael Oyamo and clerk Caspal Obiero, faces charges related to the murder of Sharon Otieno and her unborn child. Notably, a DNA test conducted on the fetus confirmed Obado as the father of Sharon's unborn baby.