The Sh505 million graft case facing former Migori Governor Okoth Obado, his four children, and several co-accused has been adjourned to July 21, 2025, to allow more time for plea bargain negotiations.
The Anti-Corruption Court granted the adjournment on Tuesday after a joint request from the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), who revealed that discussions aimed at reaching an out-of-court settlement were at an advanced stage.
In its ruling, the court accepted the reasons provided as “exceptional” but issued a warning: if negotiations collapse, the trial will proceed without further delay.
The court is expected to receive a progress update during the mention on July 21, at which point parties must either report a breakthrough in the plea bargain or confirm readiness for a full hearing.
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According to the prosecution, over Sh256 million was funneled from the Migori County government to companies linked to Obado’s close family — including his wife, children, brothers, mother, and sister-in-law — after he assumed office as governor.
Investigators allege that Obado’s brother, employed as a pharmaceutical technologist by the county government, received Sh63.8 million in county contracts, despite being a public officer.
Obado is further accused of indirectly benefiting from county funds, with Sh73.4 million allegedly channeled through his children, who reportedly used part of the money — approximately Sh38.9 million — to pay for international school fees, upkeep abroad, and purchase two luxury vehicles.
The case, one of the biggest involving a county chief, continues to draw national attention amid growing calls for accountability in devolved units.
