Soroti school murder suspects to take plea
During the plea hearing, each accused person will be required to respond to the charges. Those who plead guilty may be convicted in accordance with the law, while those who deny the charges will have the case set down for trial.
After months of court proceedings, the Jozan School murder case is set to enter a new phase with plea taking scheduled for July 16.
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The murder case involving the former directors of Jozan Nursery and Primary School in Soroti City and several co-accused is set to enter a critical stage this week, with plea taking expected before the High Court in Soroti.
According to information from Soroti High Court, a case management and planning session is scheduled for Wednesday, July 15, ahead of the formal reading of the charges on Thursday, July 16, 2026.
During the plea hearing, each accused person will be required to respond to the charges. Those who plead guilty may be convicted in accordance with the law, while those who deny the charges will have the case set down for trial.
The proceedings mark another significant milestone in a case that has attracted widespread public attention since the death of Joan Faith Apio, a five-year-old pupil at Jozan Nursery and Primary School.
Background
Joan Faith Apio was allegedly murdered on February 5, 2025, just days after joining the school. Prosecutors allege that two juveniles lured her into a staff toilet, where she was killed.
The case sparked outrage across the country, raising concerns about child safety in schools and prompting calls for justice from the victim's family and the public.
They were committed to the High Court after the Grade One Magistrate's Court concluded committal proceedings.
Over the past year, the case has been adjourned several times as investigations continued, and the prosecution prepared the committal documents.
The victim's family repeatedly expressed frustration over the delays, urging the justice system to expedite the matter.
With plea taking now scheduled, the High Court proceedings are expected to determine the next phase of the case as the accused formally respond to the charges.
The victim's family hopes the process will bring them closer to justice after more than a year of waiting.