The High Court has rejected an application by Michael Oyamo, the second accused in the murder of university student Sharon Otieno, to allow his witnesses to testify before he presents his defense.
Oyamo, who is a former personal aide to ex-Migori Governor Okoth Obado, had requested this unusual procedure, citing that he had not received a complete set of crucial data from Safaricom.
The prosecution, led by Assistant Public Prosecutor Gikui Gichui, opposed the application, stating that the law requires the accused to open their case first.
The court, agreeing with the prosecution, ruled that Oyamo must begin his defense before calling any witnesses.
“I agree with the prosecution that it is a matter of law that the accused must begin with his own evidence,” Judge Cecilia Githua said.
“I therefore decline the application. He must lay the foundation for his case, and if he chooses, he may call his witnesses afterward to support his defense.”
Oyamo, who faces charges in the 2018 murder of Sharon Otieno, was found to have a case to answer and is now required to testify first before presenting any supporting witnesses. The court granted him until Wednesday at 2:30 PM to begin his defense.
Earlier in the case, Oyamo’s lawyer argued that the delay in receiving important Safaricom data was detrimental to his client’s ability to mount a full defense.
However, the judge ruled that the procedural law must be followed, and Oyamo must start with his own evidence.
Meanwhile, former Governor Obado continues to defend himself in the same murder case.
In April 2025, Obado denied involvement in the killing, despite admitting to his romantic relationship with Sharon Otieno.
He clarified that the affair was known to both their families and the staff of the Migori County Government at the time.
“I did not kill Sharon Otieno. I did not conspire with my co-accused persons or anyone to kill her,” Obado testified.
He expressed regret over her death, acknowledging the public embarrassment it caused him but maintained his innocence regarding the murder.
The tragic death of Sharon Otieno in 2018 remains a high-profile case, with the key suspects,Obado, Oyamo, and Caspal Obiero,denying all charges.
The case continues to unfold in court as the prosecution seeks justice for Sharon and her family.
