KAMPALA — Proceedings in the high-profile Ggaba daycare murder trial were briefly halted after suspect Christopher Okello Onyum unexpectedly burst into laughter in court, intensifying tensions in a case that continues to grip the nation.
The incident occurred shortly after the court declined to admit a mobile money transaction statement as evidence—an element prosecutors consider central to their case.
Defence lawyer Sarah Awero immediately sought a 30-minute adjournment, citing her client’s emotional condition. “My client is not well emotionally,” Awero told the court, requesting time for him to stabilise.
The presiding magistrate granted the request, pausing proceedings as security personnel moved in to restore order amid visible unease among attendees.
The dramatic moment unfolded during a mobile court session held in Ggaba community, where large crowds have been gathering to follow the trial linked to the April 2 killing of four toddlers at a daycare centre.
Earlier in the day, proceedings had already faced delays due to a heavy downpour that began shortly after the suspect—transported in a prison bus following a road accident a day earlier—arrived at the venue.
Meanwhile, the court also heard testimony challenging the defence’s suggestion that Okello may be mentally unfit to stand trial. A prosecution witness, identified as a car hire dealer, argued that the accused appeared mentally stable based on his actions prior to the incident.
The witness told the court that the suspect was able to search for a car hire service online, complete a mobile money transaction, and drive himself—actions he said indicated sound mental capacity.
However, under cross-examination, the defence questioned the witness’s qualifications to make any assessment on mental health.
Prosecutors allege that Okello used a mobile money payment to gain access to the daycare centre before carrying out the attack, making the disputed financial records a key point of contention in the trial.
Following the adjournment, the hearing resumed with further prosecution testimony. The state indicated that at least seven more witnesses are expected to testify.
The unusual courtroom episode has added another layer of complexity to an already sensitive case, with ongoing debate over the suspect’s mental state even as the prosecution maintains he is fit to stand trial.
