Karua: Sharon verdict should end culture of delayed justice in femicide
Martha Karua has called for judicial reform in Kenya following the conviction of former Governor Okoth Obado for the murder of Sharon Otieno. She emphasized that the nearly eight-year delay in the case highlights systemic issues in handling femicide cases.
Why it matters
The case serves as a flashpoint for the broader conversation regarding gender-based violence and the efficiency of the criminal justice system in Kenya.
The People's Liberation Party leader, Martha Karua/FILE People's Liberation Party leader Martha Karua has said the conviction of former Migori Governor Okoth Obado and his two co-accused over the murder of university student Sharon Otieno should serve as a turning point in Kenya's response to femicide.
She said Sharon's family had finally received justice after nearly eight years of waiting, but noted that the lengthy process underscored the urgent need to reform how such cases are handled.
"It has taken seven years and 10 months, 42 prosecution witnesses, and 81 exhibits presented by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for justice for Sharon Otieno to finally arrive. Today, as Sharon's family sat in court to hear the verdict, we were reminded of the immense cost of justice delayed," Karua said.
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