Kampala, Uganda — April 27, 2026 — The defense team in the case involving Okello has officially closed its case after failing to present key witnesses in court, marking a major development in the ongoing trial.
The decision was made after repeated attempts by the defense to secure the attendance of crucial witnesses proved unsuccessful.
Defense Fails to Produce Key Witnesses
Court proceedings revealed that the defense was unable to bring forward several key witnesses it had intended to rely on.
Presiding judge Alice Komuhangi Khaukha noted that the defence had only provided phone contacts for the witnesses without physical addresses, making it difficult for court officials to trace them.
“Though Okello had provided four phone numbers, he did not provide physical addresses; therefore, it was difficult to reach the remaining witnesses,” the judge observed.
Family members were seen emotional outside court following the ruling.
With the defense closing its case, the matter is now expected to proceed to the next stage of the trial, where further legal steps will be determined by the court.
The development is considered a significant moment in the ongoing proceedings.
Murder Charges Against Okello
Okello is facing multiple counts of murder stemming from the April 2 incident in which four toddlers at Ggaba Nursery and Daycare Centre were allegedly stabbed to death, an incident that shocked the country and drew widespread public attention.
Court officials have indicated that proceedings will continue in accordance with legal procedures as both sides await further directions from the bench. A new hearing date is expected to be set by the court registry.
written by @enock katamba
enock katamba
Enock Katamba is a Ugandan Journalist and Founder of Uncovered UG, an independent digital news platform covering Uganda and international developments. He reports on politics, national affairs, entertainment, sports, business, education and other stories of public interest.