Legal proceedings have intensified in Uganda following a deadly attack on a daycare center in Kampala with the suspect now facing trial in the High Court.
Authorities confirmed that Christopher Okello Onyum has been formally charged with four counts of murder.
He appeared before the Makindye Magistrate’s Court which is responsible for reading charges and handling preliminary procedures in capital cases.
The court ordered that he be remanded to Luzira Prison pending further proceedings to transfer the case to the High Court.
At his initial appearance the suspect was not represented by legal counsel though Ugandan law guarantees state provided defense in capital cases.
Investigations indicate the suspect entered the daycare in Ggaba by posing as a parent seeking enrollment after conducting a prior visit to survey the premises.
Police say he paid an admission fee locked the gate and carried out the attack using multiple knives.
Four children aged between two and three years including three boys and one girl were killed.
The suspect was arrested shortly after the incident after being intercepted by a nearby security guard before police intervened to prevent mob violence.
The attack has triggered strong reactions including calls from senior military officials for the maximum legal penalty.
Authorities have increased security at early childhood centers across Kampala to reassure the public.
The incident coincides with regional commemorations of the 1994 genocide highlighting broader concerns about protecting vulnerable populations.
The case is expected to proceed to the High Court where prosecutors will present evidence and the trial timeline will be set.
Officials say due process will be followed despite growing public pressure for swift justice.
