A section of residents in Kisumu county have aired mixed reactions concerning Migori Governor Okoth Obado’s continued stay in detention.
On Friday evening, High Court judge Jessie Lessit directed that the governor alongside his co-accused Michael Oyamo and Caspal Obiero remain in custody until October 24, when she will make a ruling on their application for bail.
The three are accused of having a hand in the murder of slain Rongo University student Sharon Otieno and her unborn baby.
A section of residents interviewed by this writer in Kisumu’s Tom Mboya Estate shortly after the judge’s directive supported the Migori County boss continued stay in detention.
“Obado should remain in custody. Sharon’s case may just die a natural death if he is released on bail,” said Jackline Anyango.
Another resident by the name Otieno Ndinya concurred. “He should remain in custody until the truth about the murder of Sharon comes out. If he is innocent, he will be freed,” he said.
According to Lillian Akinyi, the governor should remain in custody in order to prevent him from destroying evidence.
“If he comes out, there is likelihood of him destroying any available evidence,” she said.
However, Fred Odhiambo said that the governor has a right to be released on bail.
“The governor has not been proven guilty. He deserves to be released on bail just like any other suspect,” he added.
Okoth Joseph noted that the constitution provides for the right to bail, and as such, the governor should be released until the case is heard and a determination arrived at.
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