By Swift Reporter
Proceedings in the ongoing community hearing of the Ggaba daycare murder case were on Wednesday afternoon adjourned after the prime suspect, Christopher Okello Onyum, reported feeling unwell during the session.
The trial, being held at Ggaba Community Church grounds, had resumed with testimony from prosecution witness Hashim Juma, a car rental director. Juma was detailing how Okello allegedly hired one of the company’s vehicles for two days—April 1 and April 2—when the proceedings were interrupted.
Earlier in the session, defence lawyer Sarah Awelo requested a temporary halt, informing presiding High Court Judge Alice Komuhangi Khaukha that her client was emotionally distressed and required urgent medical attention.
“Our client is not emotionally well. We pray for a short break such that the doctor sees him,” Awelo submitted.
The court granted a 30-minute break to allow medical assessment, although the session resumed after more than an hour. During the pause, the request sparked murmurs among members of the public attending the hearing, with some expressing concern over the suspect’s condition while others questioned the timing of the application.
Shortly after proceedings resumed, Okello, through his lawyers, sought permission to address the court directly. He told the judge he was still unwell and not ready to continue with the hearing, but did not provide further details.
When the judge sought clarification from prison authorities regarding any known health issues, a prison officer indicated that a formal report would need to be obtained from the officer in charge of the facility.
With the session nearing 5:00pm, Justice Komuhangi adjourned the matter to April 16, 2026, granting the defence request.
The case, which has drawn widespread public attention and heavy security presence, is being conducted within the community where the incident allegedly occurred.
Okello faces charges of killing four preschool children at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Centre on April 2, in a case that has shocked the nation.
WhatsApp/Call: +256 754 137391
