Soroti, Uganda – Outrage erupted in Soroti town after the Grade One Magistrate’s Court ruled that suspects in the murder of five-year-old Joan Faith Apio would appear via Zoom instead of attending court in person.
Residents, expecting a physical hearing, took to the streets in protest, demanding justice.
His Worship Kibirige Apollo Kasujja remanded the accused to various prisons in the Teso region and scheduled the next hearing for March 20, 2025.
However, the decision angered the public, who accused the court of shielding the suspects.
Apio was found murdered on February 5, 2025, inside a staff latrine at Jozan Nursery and Primary School, just two days after joining the boarding section.
Investigations led to the arrest of seven suspects, including Suzan Vivian Ariokot Okedi-the school’s co-director, head teacher James Odoket, police officer John Bosco Obotol, matron Adong Osula and school cook Valentine Opio.
Two juveniles, whose identities were withheld, were also implicated.
Following the court ruling, protesters stormed Jozan Nursery and Primary School, vandalizing property before police intervened.
Soroti City Woman MP Joan Alobo Acom criticized the virtual hearing, arguing that a physical appearance would reassure the public.
Security has been tightened around the court and school as authorities urge calm ahead of the next hearing.
