A Kenyan court has handed down a 25-year prison sentence to Margaret Atieno Otieno for throwing acid on her co-wife, Alfine Anyango. The incident occurred on November 25, 2024, in Saria, Awendo Sub-County, Migori County. Chief Magistrate Chrisphine Orwo found Otieno guilty of attempting to murder her co-wife and subsequently sentenced her to 25 years in prison and 14 days for the appeal.
According to the court, Otieno attacked Anyango at her stall at around 1:30 pm. Initially, there were no signs of danger, but shortly after, Otieno poured the acid on Anyango's face. The victim suffered severe burns on her face, back, and chest, causing her to fall and scream for help.
The victim's daughter, Brenda Atieno Otieno, witnessed the incident and reported that she was on her way to deliver food to her mother when she saw Otieno leaving a nearby shop with a jug under her arm. Shortly after, Brenda heard screams and rushed to the scene to find her mother severely burned.
A family employee, Victor Otieno, also testified against Margaret, stating that she had fled into the woods after seeing people approach the scene. Alfine was initially taken to Dede Health Center before being transferred to Migori County Referral Hospital, then to Ombo Mission Hospital, and finally to Chiron Kisii Hospital, where she underwent specialized surgery to repair her skin.
During her defense, Otieno denied the charges, claiming that there was an altercation after she was insulted by her co-wife. However, the court dismissed her claims, finding the prosecution's evidence to be sufficient. Chief Magistrate Orwo noted that Alfine's injuries were life-threatening and left her with permanent disfigurement and disability.
Although the law allows for a life sentence for such crimes, the magistrate opted for a 25-year sentence. The court also considered the severity of the injuries and the impact on the victim's life. Otieno was found guilty of attempting to murder her co-wife, and the sentence reflects the gravity of her actions.
The case highlights the severity of violence against women in Kenya and the need for stringent measures to prevent such incidents. The sentence serves as a deterrent to those who would commit similar crimes, emphasizing the consequences of such actions.
Key points
- A Kenyan court has sentenced a woman to 25 years in prison for throwing acid on her co-wife, leaving her with severe burns and permanent disfigurement.
- The incident occurred on November 25, 2024, in Saria, Awendo Sub-County, Migori County, and the victim suffered severe burns on her face, back, and chest.
- The court found the prosecution's evidence to be sufficient, dismissing the defendant's claims of an altercation and insult.
