Homa Bay Governor Gladys Wanga has hailed the High Court’s guilty verdict against former Migori Governor Okoth Obado and his co-accused as a landmark victory for justice, bringing closure to one of the most agonizing criminal cases in Kenya’s recent history.

Wanga’s statement follows the High Court’s ruling finding Obado, alongside his former personal assistant Michael Oyamo and county clerk Caspal Obiero, guilty of the 2018 murder of Rongo University student Sharon Otieno.

Speaking as the leader of the county where Otieno was born and where her body was recovered, Governor Wanga commended the court for maintaining unwavering independence and rigor throughout the lengthy legal process.

“The High Court has delivered its verdict on the long-running murder case of Ms Sharon Otieno, bringing an end to one of Kenya’s most high-profile criminal trials,” Wanga said.

“As the Governor of Homa Bay County, where the murder took place and where Sharon was from, I commend the integrity, transparency, and efficiency with which this case has been handled.”

Wanga emphasized that the verdict reverberates far beyond Homa Bay, serving as a powerful message for mothers, women, and advocates fighting gender-based violence (GBV) and the abuse of political power.

“I believe, along with other mothers, women, and all who closely followed this case, that the truth has emerged and that justice has finally been served,” she stated.

Sharon Otieno, a Rongo University student, was abducted alongside a journalist on September 3, 2018 before being murdered.

Her body was later discovered dumped at Kodera forest in Homa Bay County.

The case drew nationwide outrage due to the brutal nature of the crime and the political status of the primary suspect, Okoth Obado.

The High Court concluded that Obado, Oyamo, and Obiero acted with common intention to orchestrate and execute the murder.

All three convicts have been remanded in custody as they await formal sentencing.