Obado Defends Himself in Court, Says He Confessed Sharon Affair to Wife Before Her Death
Nairobi, Kenya
Former Migori Governor Okoth Obado has told the court that he was open with his wife about his extramarital relationship with Sharon Otieno, the university student whose brutal murder in 2018 shocked the country and led to a high-profile legal battle.
Appearing in court on Wednesday, Obado claimed he admitted the affair to his wife, apologized, and assured her that the relationship was over prior to Sharon’s tragic death. He further stated that he had accepted responsibility for Sharon’s pregnancy and had committed to supporting her and the unborn child.
No Plans to Marry Sharon, Obado Tells Court
In a surprising revelation, Obado said his wife had even offered to give Sharon one of their family houses, a proposal he declined, stressing he had no intention of marrying a second wife.
“I told her I had made a mistake. I apologized and told her the relationship was over. There were no plans for a second marriage,” Obado testified.
The former governor detailed a private boardroom meeting involving his wife, a journalist, and a man identified only as XYZ. During the meeting, journalist Lawrence Muller was said to have sent messages seeking confirmation about the affair for a potential media exposé.
Housing, Health, and Support: Obado Outlines Assistance Plans for Sharon
Obado also gave testimony about a meeting with Muller at Heron Court Hotel in Nairobi, where the discussion centered on Sharon’s request for housing. He said she wanted to live in Nairobi or Kisumu, but he instead proposed buying land in Homa Bay and building her a KSh 3 million home—an idea Sharon reportedly rejected.
“She wanted a 50 by 100 plot in Kisumu town, but I made it clear I could only support building in a rural setting,” Obado stated.
He told the court that they eventually agreed Sharon would move into a rental house while waiting for construction to begin, and that she was comfortable with the arrangement. He also revealed that he arranged a medical cover for her, as her pregnancy came with complications that required close monitoring.
Court Hears Details of Obado’s Role in Sharon’s Life Before Murder
Obado’s testimony is part of a defense strategy in a case where he was previously found to have a case to answer in connection to Sharon Otieno’s murder. The testimony aims to frame the relationship as transparent and supportive—casting doubt on allegations of a cover-up or conflict.
Critics have long pointed to Sharon’s murder as an example of power, betrayal, and impunity, given her relationship with a senior political figure. Obado’s detailed defense is expected to be scrutinized further as the trial proceeds, with more witnesses set to testify in the coming days.
The case continues to attract national attention as Kenyans demand accountability and justice for Sharon Otieno, whose life was cut short in a case that continues to stir emotional reactions years later.
