Suspect in Ggaba Daycare killings pleads not guilty as high-profile community trial opens
Large crowds gathered at the venue, including bereaved families, residents, and members of the public. Emotions ran high, with visible grief among parents of the victims and lingering anger within the community. Authorities remain cautious following earlier incidents in which residents attempted to attack the suspect shortly after the killings.
Christopher Okello Onyum has pleaded not guilty to four counts of murder in a case stemming from the killing of four children at a daycare centre in Ggaba, as a public trial opened Monday under heavy security.
The proceedings, presided over by Alice Komuhangi Khaukha, are being held at the Ggaba Community Church Grounds, where the venue was relocated to accommodate intense public interest and ensure transparency.
Okello, the prime suspect in the April 2, 2026 killings at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre in Makindye Division, appeared composed as he responded to the charges.
“I plead not guilty, My Lord,” he said after confirming he understood the accusations.
The charges relate to the deaths of four toddlers — Eteku Gideon, Keisha Agenoroth, Sseruynage Ignatius, and Odeke Rayan — in an incident that has shocked the nation.
Tight Security, Public Interest
Security was significantly heightened around Ggaba, with both police and military personnel deployed across key points, including near Ggaba Market, as authorities sought to maintain order.
Rachael Kawala, spokesperson for Kampala Metropolitan Police, had earlier assured residents that the increased deployment and revised patrol patterns were aimed at enhancing safety.
“We urge the community not to be alarmed,” she said, emphasizing that the measures were precautionary.
Large crowds gathered at the venue, including bereaved families, residents, and members of the public. Emotions ran high, with visible grief among parents of the victims and lingering anger within the community.
Authorities remain cautious following earlier incidents in which residents attempted to attack the suspect shortly after the killings.
Prosecution Case
The prosecution, led by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, told court it will present evidence suggesting the killings were premeditated.
State attorneys indicated they would rely on witness testimony and investigative findings to demonstrate that the accused acted with malice aforethought — a key element in securing a murder conviction.
National Attention
The decision to hold a public trial follows widespread outrage and guidance from Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, as authorities seek to reinforce public confidence in the justice system.
Legal observers say the case will largely depend on the prosecution’s ability to prove both intent and direct involvement beyond reasonable doubt.
The court is expected to hear testimony from multiple witnesses as the trial continues throughout the week.
As proceedings unfold, the case is being closely watched across the country, seen as a critical test of Uganda’s justice system in handling one of the most disturbing criminal incidents in recent memory.
