The Judiciary has confirmed its readiness to commence the trial of Christopher Onyum Okello, the suspect in the widely followed Ggaba toddlers’ murder case, in what marks a significant shift in Uganda’s administration of justice.
Earlier today, Principal Judge Jane Frances Abodo inspected the Ggaba Community Church Grounds to assess preparedness for a Mobile High Court session.
The venue has been designated to host the special criminal sitting, bringing court proceedings directly into the community affected by the alleged crime.
The trial will be presided over by Justice Alice Komuhangi Khaukha, who will lead the proceedings in this unprecedented session.
This will be the first Mobile High Court criminal session to be conducted in Kampala, underscoring the Judiciary’s evolving approach to justice delivery.
The initiative reflects a broader commitment to enhancing access to justice by situating court processes within communities, particularly in cases of significant public interest and impact.
The Mobile Court session will be conducted under the recently issued Mobile Courts Practice Directions by the Chief Justice.
These guidelines provide the legal and procedural framework for holding court sessions outside conventional court premises where circumstances demand, while safeguarding the integrity, fairness, and transparency of proceedings.
Judicial officials noted that the initiative is intended to strengthen public confidence in the justice system and promote greater community engagement. By decentralising proceedings, the Judiciary aims to bridge the gap between courts and the public.
The Ggaba trial is expected to attract significant attention as the community awaits justice in a case that has stirred grief and concern across Kampala.
