HABARI DAILY I Kampala, Uganda I Shock and tension filled the air at Ggaba as murder suspect Christopher Okello Onyum firmly denied charges that he killed four toddlers at a local early childhood development centre, setting the stage for what is expected to be a closely watched trial.
Appearing before a mobile session of the High Court presided over by Justice Alice Komuhangi Khaukha on Monday, Okello rejected all four counts of murder brought against him. Each count relates to the death of one of the infants allegedly killed earlier this month at the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre.
When asked to take a plea, Okello briefly consulted with his legal team before addressing the court. “No, I plead otherwise. I plead not guilty,” he said, in a calm but firm tone.
Shock on denial
His response triggered audible gasps from the hundreds of members of the public who had gathered at the crime scene to witness proceedings. The presiding judge quickly called for calm, warning attendees to maintain order as the court continued its work.
Okello had been brought to the scene shortly before 11:00am under tight security, reflecting the gravity of the charges and the public interest surrounding the case. Proceedings began immediately, with the prosecution formally reading out the charges.
The suspect confirmed he understood the accusations leveled against him, clearing the way for the trial to proceed. His denial now places the burden on the State to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt in what prosecutors have described as a disturbing and deliberate act.
Postmortem reports
In a notable development, Okello informed the court that his defense team had reached an agreement with state prosecutors on certain aspects of the evidence. This includes postmortem reports prepared by Dr Abdul Katongole, which detail the causes of death of the four children. As a result, witnesses related to the postmortem findings will not be required to testify in person, a move expected to streamline parts of the trial.
Legal analysts say such agreements, while procedural, could help the court focus on contested issues, including the circumstances surrounding the deaths and Okello’s alleged involvement.
Daily hearings
The High Court has scheduled daily sessions at the Ggaba crime scene throughout the week, in a rare move aimed at enhancing transparency and allowing public participation in the justice process.
The case has gripped the nation, with many Ugandans demanding swift justice for the young victims. As proceedings continue, all eyes remain on the court to determine whether the prosecution can substantiate its claims against a man who has now publicly and unequivocally denied responsibility.
