Former Migori County boss Okoth Obado took the stand on Wednesday to deny involvement in the 2018 murder of Sharon Otieno, despite acknowledging they were romantically involved.
Testifying before Justice Cecilia Githua, Obado firmly denied orchestrating or participating in the killing of the university student, who was found murdered in Homa Bay County six years ago. He, alongside his then personal aide Michael Oyamo and associate Caspal Obiero, has been charged in connection with the murder—charges all three have consistently denied.
“I had no hand in Sharon Otieno’s death,” Obado told the court. “I did not plot with anyone, nor did I instruct anyone to harm her.”
While distancing himself from the crime, Obado admitted to having had an affair with Sharon—an affair he said was known to both families and colleagues at the county government offices.
Obado expressed regret over her tragic death, saying it has weighed heavily on him personally and politically.
“She didn’t deserve to die. Her passing has deeply hurt her family and left a stain on my name,” he said. “I feel for her children and parents, and I am truly sorry it happened. But I maintain—I was not involved.”
He acknowledged that Sharon’s pregnancy was his responsibility, although he clarified he had no intentions of marrying her. According to his testimony, the relationship was an “open secret” among Migori county staff, and even his wife, Hellen Adhiambo, had become aware of the affair.
Obado recounted an incident during the 2018 Devolution Conference in Kisumu when his wife confronted him late at night, suspecting he was with Sharon. Initially, he denied the claim, but eventually confessed after she presented more evidence.
“I hadn’t told my wife about Sharon. So when she raised the issue, I was shocked. At first, I denied knowing her—but later, I admitted to the affair and apologized,” he said.
