By Nasser Kayanja
The High Court has ordered 38-year-old Christopher Okello Onyumu to present his defence over the alleged murder of four juveniles at a daycare centre in Gaba.
Presiding judge Alice Koumuhangi Kaukha issued the ruling after the prosecution closed its case, having presented testimony from 17 witnesses in an attempt to prove that Okello, with malice aforethought, attacked the daycare centre and fatally assaulted the children.
In her decision, Justice Kaukha stated that upon evaluating the evidence on record, the prosecution had established a case sufficient to require Okello to defend himself against the murder charges dated April 2, 2026.
Okello was informed of his legal options: he may remain silent and allow the court to decide based on the prosecution’s evidence, give sworn testimony subject to cross-examination, or make an unsworn statement without being questioned by the prosecution. In all scenarios, he retains the right to call witnesses in his defence.
The accused opted to give sworn testimony and indicated that he intends to call witnesses, although he expressed uncertainty about locating them. The court assured him of its support in summoning any witnesses he identifies.
Okello also requested access to his confiscated mobile phones, stating they contain contact details of potential witnesses. The devices were powered on and presented in court to enable him retrieve the necessary information.
Earlier, Okello had sought to delay his defence until Monday to consult with his lawyers on the testimony presented by the prosecution witnesses.