Uganda’s High Court has sentenced Christopher Okello Onyum to death by hanging after convicting him of murdering four toddlers at a daycare center in Kampala, concluding a fast-tracked trial following one of the country’s most shocking crimes.
Presiding judge Alice Komuhangi Khauka rejected the defendant’s insanity plea, ruling that the killings were deliberate and premeditated.
“The precise manner in which the murders were carried out shows the accused was fully aware of his actions,” the judge said, adding that he showed no remorse and offered no apology to the victims’ families.
Although Uganda retains the death penalty, executions are rare, with the last carried out in 2005. The convicted man has 14 days to appeal.
Attack details
The case stems from an attack at a childcare center in Kampala’s Ggaba suburb, where the suspect reportedly gained entry by posing as a parent before locking the gate and launching the assault.
The victims were four children aged between 15 months and two-and-a-half years.
A nearby security guard intervened to stop the attack, while police fired warning shots to disperse an angry crowd attempting to assault the suspect after his arrest.
Prosecution and defense
Prosecutors said the suspect, a Ugandan-American dual citizen, confessed during investigations that he believed the killings would bring him wealth through “human sacrifice,” before later pleading not guilty in court.
The prosecution relied on witness testimony, forensic evidence, and the suspect’s conduct to demonstrate intent and planning.
The defense argued mental instability, but the court dismissed the claim after reviewing psychiatric assessments.
National reaction
The killings triggered widespread grief and outrage, with calls for stronger security measures in schools and daycare centers.
Authorities also warned against mob justice following the incident.
The case continues to draw significant national attention as Uganda grapples with its aftermath.
