Former Migori governor Okoth Obado and co-accused begin prison life after murder conviction
via Tuko5 min read
Former Migori governor Okoth Obado, Michael Oyamo, and Caspal Obiero have started their prison sentences at Industrial Area Remand Prison following their conviction for the murder of student Sharon Otieno. The trio, who arrived after dinner service, were housed in Block G, a section often used for high-profile remandees and prisoners. They were issued a mattress, bed, and blanket, sharing a room with former Nairobi Central Police Station Commander Samson Talaam. Ironically, Obado had previously donated a television set to the prison, which was in the room where he slept. Prison life for inmates begins at 6 am with a headcount, followed by breakfast of porridge. Prisoners then attend a 'parliament' session before being assigned tasks like cooking or cleaning. Meals include options like ugali and beans, and the final meal is served between 3 pm and 3:30 pm, with cells locked at 6 pm. Family visits are limited to 10 minutes and are supervised. Money for prisoners is deposited into an account for use at the prison shop. A prison official emphasized that all prisoners are treated equally, with sleeping quarters assigned based on risk level, not status. The initial days in prison are often difficult due to psychological shock, and inmates receive counseling. Obado's life, despite his former position, will now follow the routine of other prisoners, including low-cost meals and crowded dormitories, as he awaits his verdict and appeal.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Tuko.
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Migori governor Ochilo Ayacko has drawn criticism for a public statement expressing sadness over the murder conviction of his predecessor, former Migori governor Okoth Obado, without acknowledging the victim's family. Ayacko posted on Facebook on Thursday, July 23, the same day the High Court found Obado, his former personal assistant Michael Oyamo, and former Migori county clerk Caspal Obiero guilty of masterminding the 2018 killing of university student Sharon Otieno. In his statement, Ayacko described Obado's conviction as "a painful moment for all of us" and extended his "thoughts and prayers" to the families of the three convicted men, praying for their "strength, grace and courage." He made no mention of Sharon Otieno or her family. Kenyans online reacted negatively, questioning why the governor focused solely on the convicted men's families. Commenters highlighted Ayacko's profession as a lawyer when challenging his statement's tone. Justice Cecilia Githua ruled that Obado masterminded the murder by providing motive, planning, and financing. The court found that all three accused acted with common intention in planning, executing, and concealing the killing. Following the verdict, the court cancelled their bond terms and ordered their remand pending sentencing, with pre-sentence and victim impact assessment reports to be prepared within 21 days.