Okello Faces Final Verdict as High Court Set to Rule on Toddler Murders
The High Court is today, Thursday, expected to deliver the final verdict in the case of Christopher Okello Onyum, a 39-year-old Ugandan-born American accused of murdering four toddlers at a day care centre in Ggaba earlier this month.
Justice Alice Komuhangi Khaukha will hand down her ruling after hearing from a three-member team of assessors, who on Monday returned a unanimous opinion that Okello is guilty of four counts of murder.
The victims — Ryan Odeke, Keisha Agenorwoth Otim, Gideon Eteku and Ignatius Sseruyange, all aged under three — were killed on April 2 at the Early Childhood Development Programme Centre in Ggaba, Makindye division.
Assessors Cite Medical Reports, CCTV Evidence
In their non-binding opinion, assessors Musa Musana, Racheal Ainomugisha and Maria Theopista Kyolijja told the judge that the prosecution team, led by chief state attorney Jonathan Muwaganya, had sufficiently proved Okello's culpability.
The assessors pointed to medical reports from experts indicating that Okello was in a stable mental state at the time of committing the crimes. They also relied on CCTV evidence presented in court, call data records, and testimony from staff members of the day care centre.
They stated that the prosecution had not only placed Okello at the crime scene but had also demonstrated his direct participation in the commission of the murders.
Defence Argues Mental Disorder
During final submissions, Okello's defence team — Richard Kumbuga and Sarah Awero — argued that their client was suffering from schizophrenia, a mental disorder, and urged the court to acquit him.
Kumbuga drew on the Penal Code Act, arguing that a person is not criminally responsible for any act or omission if, at the time of doing it through any disease affecting the mind, they are incapable of understanding their actions.
While giving his unsworn testimony last week, Okello described a "distressing period" between January and March this year, speaking of being pursued by people over money, which forced him into hiding. He also admitted to attempting to rob a bank and kill his brother's family.
Only two of his four selected witnesses appeared in court, with authorities unable to reach the other two.
Nation Awaits Verdict
Justice Komuhangi has now heard all sides, as well as the opinion of the assessors. While the judge is not bound by the assessors' recommendation, their unanimous guilty opinion carries significant weight.
The country now awaits her final verdict in a case that has horrified the nation and reignited discussions about safety standards at early childhood education facilities.
