A landmark court session is set to begin in Ggaba as the man accused of killing four toddlers faces trial in full public view, just metres from the scene of the crime.
Christopher Okello Onyum, 38, will today be brought before a special mobile High Court sitting at Ggaba Community Church grounds, marking the first time such a session is being held within the community where the alleged crime occurred. He is charged with four counts of murder following the fatal stabbing of children at a nearby daycare centre on April 2.
The decision to hold the trial in Ggaba is part of a new approach by the Judiciary aimed at bringing justice closer to the people, especially in cases that have deeply affected communities. Preparations at the venue were completed over the weekend, with multiple agencies—including the Police, Uganda Prisons Service, and local leaders—working together to set up a secure and functional court environment.
Authorities say the suspect will be transported under tight security early in the morning and temporarily held in a secure facility near the grounds before appearing in court. The hearing itself will take place in a large tent, specially set up to accommodate both court proceedings and members of the public.
The trial is expected to draw significant attention, with up to 1,000 people anticipated to attend. Priority access has already been given to families of the victims, officials, and key stakeholders, while remaining slots will be issued to the public on a first-come basis.
To ensure wider access, the Judiciary has installed a public address system and arranged for live broadcasts on television and social media platforms, allowing the country to follow proceedings in real time.
The case has gripped the nation since the tragic killing of four children aged between one and two years at the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Programme on the eve of Good Friday. The week-long session will depend on how the accused responds to the charges, as the court begins what is expected to be one of the most closely watched trials in recent years.
