The family of slain university student Sharon Otieno on Saturday July 25, made their first public appearance since the landmark court verdict that convicted former Migori Governor Okoth Obado over her 2018 murder.
Sharon’s parents, Douglas Otieno and Melida Auma, attended a thanksgiving service at Magare Got Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church, accompanied by Sharon’s three siblings.
During the service, the family received special prayers of thanksgiving, expressing gratitude after what they described as a long and difficult journey to justice.
Speaking at the church and later after the service, Sharon’s mother, Melida Auma, reflected on the years of pain, public scrutiny and emotional turmoil that followed her daughter’s brutal killing.
She said the family endured ridicule, misinformation and widespread speculation on social media as they pursued justice for Sharon.
Despite the painful memories, Melida said the recent court ruling had given the family a sense of closure and renewed hope.
”Justice has finally been served. It has been a long journey filled with pain, but today we thank God because He has walked with us through every step,” she said.
Drawing strength from her Christian faith, Melida said she had chosen to forgive those responsible for Sharon’s death.
”As a Christian, I have forgiven those who killed my daughter. Forgiveness does not erase the pain, but it allows me to move forward and leave everything to God,” she said.
She described the court’s decision as the beginning of a new chapter for her family, expressing optimism that life would gradually return to normal after years of grief and court proceedings.
”Our family has carried this burden for many years. We believe this marks a new beginning, and we pray that God restores our peace,” she added.
The thanksgiving service drew relatives, friends, church members and residents who joined the family in prayers and words of encouragement following the conclusion of one of Kenya’s most high-profile murder trials.
The appearance marked an emotional milestone for the family, who have largely remained out of the public eye throughout the lengthy legal process that followed Sharon Otieno’s murder nearly eight years ago.
