The murder of human rights defender Richard Otieno

COURT UPDATE The hearing scheduled for today, July 14, 2026, at the Supreme Court of Kenya in Nakuru regarding the murder of human rights defender Richard Otieno

has been adjourned until October 29, 2026. The murder case of Richard Raymond Otieno—better known as the “Molo President”—continues to drag on. This adjournment is the latest in a series of delays that have plagued the case since the investigation began. Earlier in 2026, the main hearing had to be postponed after the defense failed to appear in full. The victim, Richard Otieno, was a prominent and outspoken critic of local and national politics and a dedicated advocate for social justice in Elburgon (Molo constituency, Nakuru County). He was a candidate for a seat on the Elburgon County Council in 2022. He was known for his local mobilization and activism in Molo and Elburgon. He publicly criticized the government and elected officials, particularly regarding the provision of public services and political accountability, and participated in the protests against the Finance Act in 2024. The attack took place on January 18, 2025, near his home in Elburgon. He was brutally murdered with bladed weapons shortly after reporting that he was being threatened and followed. His death sparked intense local protests and nationwide outrage. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested several suspects throughout 2025. According to police findings, this was a contract killing, and the alleged perpetrators were paid to carry out the act. The repeated postponements continue to cause great concern in the Elburgon community and among human rights organizations, as there are ongoing demands to hold not only the perpetrators but also the masterminds and financiers of the murder fully accountable. More than a year and a half has passed since Richard was murdered in connection with his human rights work. Nevertheless, the path to justice for his family and colleagues has not gone as planned. Judge Joseph Sergon, standing in for Judge Patricia Gichohi, adjourned the trial, further delaying the resolution of the case. The Defenders Coalition will continue to closely monitor the proceedings and express its solidarity with Richard Otieno, his family, and all human rights defenders who are committed to accountability and justice. @UNHCR @bnn.ke, RICHARD OTIENO: FINAL MOMENTS OF ACTIVIST MURDERED 200M FROM A POLICE STATION @Tge-Stat.co.ke, DCI: Molo activist Otieno was killed unknown by assassins