Sharon Otieno's father: Why I've forgiven Obado, but not Oyamo and Obiero

Sharon Otieno's father, Douglas Otieno, has told a court in Nairobi that he wants former Governor Okoth Obado to receive a non-custodial sentence, rather than death.

Speaking on Wednesday to Justice Cecilia Githua, who is expected to deliver a sentencing decision after Obado was found guilty of the 26-year-old's brutal murder in 2018, he revealed that Obado's relatives had reached out for reconciliation after his conviction.

"After the judgment you gave, the former governor sent his relatives and brothers to my house for a reconciliation attempt. Because of his remorse, a non-custodial sentence is okay," he told the court.

However, he made it clear that he did not feel the same way about Obado's co-accused — former personal assistant Michael Juma Oyamo and former county clerk Caspal Ojwang Obiero.

"I am too bitter before this court, seeing Oyamo and Ojwang. These are the people who met my daughter last. They are not remorseful," he said.

He added: "If I could be a dog today, I would bite them and lick their blood — the same way dogs licked the blood of my daughter."

On her part, Sharon's mother Melida Auma, said Obado should be given a non-custodial sentence to allow him to care for the children she left behind. 

"Don’t crucify Obado in this case. Sharon left her three children behind and I have struggled through this journey. If he is granted a non-custodial sentence, at least he'll be able to help us take care of these children."

Sharon's bloodied body was found dumped in a thicket in Owade, Homa Bay County. Obado, Oyamo and Ojwang were convicted of her murder in July this year, bringing to a close a trial that gripped the county for more than seven years.

Earlier, the court allowed the late university student's parents to make a verbal presentation, in addition to the affidavits already filed. The defence said it would respond based on what they say.

Sharon's family then requested a Dholuo translator, which was granted by the court. The hearing was adjourned, but resumed later once a translator was secured.