The Ugandan government has announced that the trial of Christopher Okello Onyum, the suspect accused of killing four children at a daycare centre in Ggaba, will be held in an open community setting at the scene of the crime, in a move aimed at ensuring transparency and public participation in the justice process.
In an official statement, the Minister of State for Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara, expressed appreciation to the joint security forces, including the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT), Crime Intelligence, and other intelligence agencies, for what he described as “speedy, thorough and comprehensive” investigations into the tragic incident.
The minister also commended the Judiciary, led by the Lord Chief Justice, for approving an expedited trial in response to public concern and the gravity of the case.
Authorities confirmed that the trial will commence on Monday, April 13, 2026, and will run for one week, with daily sessions from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
In line with public demand and government policy direction, the proceedings will be conducted in open court and physically held at Ggaba Community School Grounds—the scene of the alleged crime.
Seating within the courtroom-style setup will be limited to 1,000 members of the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Once capacity is reached, no further entry will be allowed.
To enhance public access, screens and loudspeakers will be installed at the venue, and the trial will also be broadcast live on major television stations.
Authorities have urged members of the public to avoid carrying bags or unnecessary items to facilitate security screening and ensure smooth access.
The government has encouraged parents and members of the public to attend, emphasizing collective participation in the pursuit of justice.
“This is a moment for the nation to stand together in pursuit of justice, especially for the innocent lives lost,” the statement read.
The suspect, Christopher Okello Onyum, a 34-year-old man who recently returned to Uganda from the United States, is accused of killing four children at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre.
Prosecution alleges that Onyum committed the offences on April 2, 2026, with malice aforethought, resulting in the deaths of Ignatius Sseruyange, Ryan Odeke, Keisha Ogenorwoth Otim, and Gideon Oteku.
Court documents indicate that the suspect, who reportedly holds American citizenship, returned to Uganda on February 9, 2026, through the Busia border.
He has been charged with four counts of murder under Sections 171 and 172 of the Penal Code Act and was committed to the High Court for trial.
Investigations and trial preparations are ongoing as authorities prepare for what is expected to be a highly sensitive and closely followed case.
Ggaba daycare murder suspect returned to Uganda in February, killed children to get wealth
