Soroti Magistrate’s Court Dismisses Case Against MP Alobo and Co-Accused Over Want of Prosecution
By Odeke Emma Akol
The Soroti Chief Magistrate’s Court has dismissed a high-profile case in which Soroti City Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Joan Alobo Acom, and twelve co-accused faced charges of arson, malicious damage, housebreaking, theft, and incitement to violence.
Delivering her ruling on Monday morning, Chief Magistrate Hilda Bakanansa Walaga dismissed the case citing want of prosecution, a legal principle applied when the state fails to diligently pursue a case.
The decision brings to an end a five-month legal battle that had attracted widespread public attention in Soroti and across the Teso sub-region.
Background of the Case
The charges stemmed from events of March 6–7, 2025, when residents stormed Jozan Nursery and Primary School in Soroti following the brutal murder of five-year-old pupil Joan Faith Apio, whose body was discovered in a school latrine. The incident sparked mass outrage, demonstrations, and destruction of property.
Prosecutors, led by Chief State Attorney Paul Okello, accused the 13 individuals—including MP Alobo—of setting fire to school property, destroying furniture and books, stealing items such as mattresses and maize flour, and inciting residents to violence.
Despite repeated adjournments, the prosecution failed to present sufficient evidence or witnesses. In contrast, the accused complied with all court requirements, including stringent bail conditions.
The Ruling
Chief Magistrate Walaga emphasized the importance of fairness, noting that the accused could not be subjected to endless court appearances without progress in the trial.
“The court cannot continue to inconvenience the accused persons, some of whom are leaders and breadwinners, by subjecting them to endless appearances without progress in the trial. In the absence of diligent prosecution, this case is hereby dismissed, and all bail deposits refunded,” she ruled.
Defense Reaction
Defense lawyer Edmund Elasu hailed the decision as a victory for justice, arguing that the charges were both exaggerated and politically motivated.
“How can anyone reasonably believe that an elected Member of Parliament could be stealing mattresses, soda, and maize flour? These allegations were defamatory and meant to tarnish her image,” Elasu told journalists.
MP Alobo Speaks Out
In her first remarks after the ruling, Hon. Alobo expressed relief, calling the judgment a vindication not only for herself but also for the people of Soroti.
“I am glad that today the judicial system has proved that justice works under the law. My opponents thought this case would end my political career, but God has vindicated me,” she said.
Alobo pledged to continue pressing for justice for the late pupil Apio Joan and to champion accountability in education and security.
Political Implications
The case carried significant political weight, with many of Alobo’s supporters viewing the charges as an attempt to silence her. Analysts argue that the acquittal could strengthen her political base ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Political commentator Patrick Aisu noted:
“Cases like this often serve as a litmus test for politicians. For Hon. Alobo, coming out acquitted strengthens her narrative as a victim of political persecution.”
However, critics warned that her association with violent demonstrations may remain a political liability among conservative voters.
Broader Questions
The dismissal highlights recurring concerns about Uganda’s justice system, particularly in politically sensitive cases. It underscores the duty of state prosecutors to pursue cases diligently while reinforcing the principle that individuals—especially political leaders—should not be held indefinitely under unproven allegations.
Meanwhile, the unresolved murder of Joan Faith Apio remains a painful reminder of the need for accountability and justice for vulnerable children in Uganda.
