The parents of slain former Rongo University student Sharon Otieno have appealed to Kenyans to stop bullying their family on social media following the conviction of those found guilty of her murder.
Sharon was killed on September 3, 2018, and her body was later found dumped in Owade, Rachuonyo South Sub-County, Homa Bay County. The 26-year-old was pregnant at the time of her death and died alongside her unborn baby.
Former Migori Governor Okoth Obado, together with his aides Caspal Obiero and Michael Oyamo, was charged in connection with Sharon’s murder. The Milimani High Court found the three guilty, with Lady Justice Cecilia Githua expected to sentence them on August 13, 2026.
Sharon’s Mother Condemns Online Attacks
Speaking after the conviction, Sharon’s mother, Melida Auma Rangili, said hurtful comments circulating on social media had compounded the family’s grief.
She accused some social media users of using Sharon’s death to attack and blame the family, describing the comments as malicious and insensitive.
“It is unfortunate that some people are taking advantage of Sharon’s death to bully our family. They claim I failed to raise her well and that she was driven by money. Those are malicious lies,” Melida said.
She urged Kenyans to exercise compassion and respect when discussing Sharon and the circumstances surrounding her death.
‘Sharon Deserves Dignity’
Melida maintained that her daughter was an adult who deserved dignity both in life and in death.
“Let social media users know that Sharon had children and parents. Any information published on social media about her should be done respectfully,” she said.
She further pleaded with members of the public to stop making comments that deepen the family’s pain as they continue coming to terms with the court’s judgment.
The family now hopes that the conclusion of the murder case will allow them to begin healing after nearly eight years of seeking justice for Sharon and her unborn child.
