The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Criminal defence lawyer Cliff Ombeta has challenged the conviction of former Migori Governor Okoth Obado in the murder of Sharon Otieno, arguing that the prosecution failed to produce evidence directly connecting his client to the crime.
His remarks come a day after the High Court found Obado, alongside Michael Oyamo and Caspal Obiero, guilty of the 2018 murder of Sharon Otieno, a decision that has generated widespread public debate.
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In a statement shared on social media, Ombeta maintained that Obado did not commit the offence, saying the prosecution had not proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
According to the lawyer, neither direct nor circumstantial evidence placed Obado at the crime scene or showed he took part in the killing.
Ombeta also criticised the court’s reasoning, claiming the judgment was based on assumptions rather than conclusive evidence. He argued that the court inferred Obado’s actions were driven by fear of public scrutiny and embarrassment.
The advocate further questioned whether other possible suspects had been adequately considered during the investigation, suggesting alternative scenarios should have been explored.
On Thursday, Justice Cecilia Githua ruled that the prosecution had established beyond reasonable doubt that Obado, Oyamo and Obiero acted with a common intention in the murder of Sharon Otieno.
The court found that Obado financed the murder, while his co-accused played different roles in executing and concealing the crime. Although Obado was not physically present at the scene, the judge ruled that the evidence demonstrated his involvement in planning and facilitating the offence.
Following the conviction, the High Court cancelled the bond terms for all three convicted persons and ordered that they remain in custody pending sentencing.
Ombeta’s comments are expected to intensify legal and public debate over the case as the defence prepares for mitigation and possible appeals against the conviction.
