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Former Migori Governor Okoth Obado and co-accused in the murder of University student Sharon Otieno have been warned against threatening or interfering with witnesses in the ongoing trial.

Delivering a ruling in an application by a taxi driver, Jack Otieno Gombe, that he needs protection following threats on his life, High Court judge Cecilia Githua ordered the accused to desist from interfering with the current witness or any other in the future.

Justice Githua dismissed the application by Gombe that he needs protection, saying no tangible evidence has been presented to prove the allegation.

The judge said that she will not hesitate to cancel bonds or take action against anyone who interferes with the trial.

“This court will not hesitate to take stern action against any person who interferes with state witnesses,” Justice Githua stated.

Applying for Gombe’s protection, state prosecutor Allen Mulama told the judge after the last hearing that Gombe was approached to stop testifying by a relative of one of the accused, Casper Obiero.

He said his brother Ken was approached by Olivia Adhiambo Oloo (the wife of Casper) to convince him to abandon testifying in the case.

Fearing for life

Gombe told the judge he is fearing for his life and wished to be referred back to the witness protection agency.

Mulama also said Gombe has expressed fear for his family. Mulama urged the court to order the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) to investigate the allegations of interference with witnesses. Justice Githua directed DCI officers in Suna East to investigate the allegations made by the witness.

The judge dismissed the application to place Gombe under witness protection.