Horror in Kampala: Trial Begins for Man Accused of Stabbing Four Toddlers as Mobile Court Faces Test

A high-profile murder trial has begun in Kampala, drawing attention across the region. The case involves a man accused of stabbing four toddlers at a nursery school, an incident that shocked the nation. What makes the trial even more unusual is the setting. Proceedings are being held in a temporary tent near the scene, marking the first major use of Uganda’s mobile court system.

The accused, Christopher Okello Onyum, has denied all charges. He is facing four counts of murder linked to the attack that took place earlier this month. Authorities say he was arrested while attempting to flee. Prosecutors claim he had previously admitted to the killings, though the motive remains deeply disturbing and unclear.

During the hearing, witnesses shared emotional and tense accounts of what happened. One staff member described the moment the situation turned from confusion to horror. “At first I thought he was beating a child,” she told the court, before realizing the seriousness of the attack. Her testimony highlighted the panic and fear inside the school as people tried to respond quickly.

Parents of the victims also gave evidence, recounting their last moments with their children before dropping them off at school. The testimonies were emotional, with one parent reportedly collapsing after speaking. The courtroom atmosphere reflected the weight of the tragedy, with many attendees visibly shaken.

The mobile court setup has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters say it allows communities to witness justice in action and promotes transparency. Critics, however, argue it risks turning a sensitive case into a public spectacle and could interfere with a fair trial process. Legal groups have raised concerns about whether such an approach respects the rights of both victims and the accused.

Authorities have defended the decision, saying it is part of efforts to modernize the justice system. As the trial continues, attention remains not only on the verdict but also on whether mobile courts can work effectively in such serious cases.