Okello Pleads Not Guilty to Murder of Four Toddlers at Ggaba School as Public Trial Opens
Ggaba, Kampala – The man accused of killing four toddlers at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre has denied all charges as his week-long public trial commenced Monday at Gaba Community School Grounds.
Okello Christopher Onyum pleaded not guilty to four counts of murder before Justice Alice Komuhangi Khaukha, drawing gasps from the public gallery.
“Yes My Lord, I have understood the charge… I plead not guilty to this charge My Lord,” Okello told the court.
The Charges
Prosecution alleges that Okello, on April 2, 2026, at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre in Makindye Division, Kampala district, unlawfully caused the deaths of four toddlers: Eteku Gideon, Keisha Agenoroth, Sseruynage Ignatius, and Odeke Rayan.
The charges fall under sections 171 and 172 of the penal code act, cap 128.
Prosecution’s Case
According to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), investigators have uncovered evidence of a carefully planned attack.
“The prosecution’s case shall, at trial, reveal a sequence of deliberate and calculated actions preceding the attack. Investigations indicate that the accused planned the offence over several days before launching a violent assault on the children,” the DPP stated.
Public Trial Arrangements
The trial, running daily from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, was ordered as a public proceeding following both public demand and guidance from President Yoweri Museveni.
Parents, relatives of the victims, state witnesses, and members of the public are present in the courtroom.
Heavy security has been deployed around the court premises to prevent potential violence from area residents who previously sought to lynch the suspect on the day of the killings.
With Okello’s not-guilty plea entered, the trial now proceeds with prosecution required to present evidence while the defence prepares its case.
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