Finally: Court Finds Okello Has Case To Answer, Ordered Back In Dock To Give His Full Defence

By Swift Reporter

The tragic killings at the Ggaba Early Childhood Development Program, which claimed the lives of several young children, continue to cast a long shadow of grief and outrage. The incident has intensified concerns about safety and security in early childhood institutions across the country.

Court proceedings are being held at the Ggaba Community Church grounds, a move aimed at bringing the justice process closer to the affected community.

Presiding over the case, Justice Alice Komuhangi Khaukha has today ruled that the prosecution had established sufficient evidence requiring the accused, Christopher Okello, to present his defence.

The High Court session was first adjourned for 30 minutes following the close of the prosecution’s case, during which a total of 17 witnesses testified.

“I have evaluated the evidence that has been adduced against you, and I find that it makes a case against you, requiring you to give your defence on each of the four counts,” Justice Khaukha stated.

When asked if he understood the ruling, Okello confirmed that he did and acknowledged that the prosecution had completed presenting its case.

The judge outlined the legal options available to him. Okello may choose to remain silent, as he is presumed innocent until proven guilty. Alternatively, he can make an unsworn statement without being cross-examined, or take oath and testify formally, in which case he will be subject to questioning.

Justice Khaukha also noted that the accused has the right to call witnesses in his defence under any of these options.

“You can keep quiet… you are presumed innocent until proven guilty,” the judge emphasized, before explaining the procedures for giving sworn testimony.

Court has once again adjourned the matter for another 1hour to allow Okello compose himself and start giving in his defense. The focus now shifts to whether Okello’s account will challenge the prosecution’s case or further strengthen the path toward justice for the young lives lost. Stay tuned we are on ground to give you all the updates.