crime 6 April 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Church Leaders Denounce Brutal Killing of Four Toddlers in Kampala Daycare
Religious leaders across Uganda have strongly condemned the stabbing deaths of four children under three at a Kampala kindergarten on the eve of Good Friday, calling it a stark sign of societal decay and a dark moment for the nation. They prayed for the grieving families and urged moral renewal amid ongoing investigations into the suspect's motives and mental state. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/clerics-condemn-killing-of-four-toddlers-at-kampala-kindergarten--5414448
Church Leaders Denounce Brutal Killing of Four Toddlers in Kampala Daycare
Church leaders in Uganda voiced unanimous outrage over the tragic stabbing of four toddlers at Ggaba Early Childhood Development Programme School in Makindye Division, Kampala. The attack occurred last Thursday, just before Good Friday, shocking the nation during Easter preparations.
The suspect, Christopher Okello—a former US resident—posed as a parent before carrying out the assault, killing four children under three and injuring another. He remains in custody as police investigate his motives and mental health.
Kampala Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere highlighted the innocence of the victims, noting they trusted the attacker for protection. ‘Such atrocities must end; we will all face judgment,’ he stated in his sermon.
Church of Uganda Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu described Uganda as ‘broken, bruised, and bloodied,’ calling for forgiveness during his Easter message at All Saints Cathedral.
Pastor Julius Rwotlonyo of Watoto Church labeled it a ‘dark day,’ attributing the act to deep heart rot in society. He emphasized that only spiritual change, not more security, can heal the nation.
Bishop Moses Banja of Namirembe Diocese offered sympathies to parents, praying for their healing. Distant clerics like Bishop John Wilson Nandaah of Mbale demanded swift justice and better school security.
Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister Charles Peter Mayiga urged quick investigations to uncover the motive. Police spokesperson Rusoke Kituuma confirmed ongoing probes, with the suspect set for court post-Easter and a medical evaluation underway.
State Minister for Higher Education John Chrysostom Muyingo visited the site, ordering immediate closure of the daycare and two sister schools—Maranatha High and Primary—pending reports and police statements.
The Network of Early Childhood Actors Uganda (NECDA) called for a nationwide audit of ECD centers to address safety gaps in formal and informal setups.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)