The Soroti Chief Magistrate's Court has once again delayed the hearing of a case involving Soroti City MP Joan Alobo, who is facing charges related to arson and theft at Jozan Nursery and Primary School.
The incident, which occurred on March 6, 2025, was allegedly fueled by public frustration over the delayed justice for Joan Faith Apio, a pupil who was brutally murdered at the same school earlier this year.
Chief Magistrate Hilda Bakanasa Kalaga adjourned the case, citing ongoing plea bargain discussions.
Defense lawyer Moses Okot Junior Bitek of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has continued to push for transparency, demanding that the prosecution disclose all evidence against the accused.
The arson attack resulted in the destruction of school property and looting, further escalating tensions in Soroti.
Following the incident, authorities arrested 12 additional suspects, who remain on remand, while MP Alobo was granted bail pending further investigations.
The case has been further complicated by the involvement of other prominent political figures, including Soroti West MP Jonathan Ebwalu and FDC President Patrick Amuriat Oboi.
The trio is also facing separate charges of unlawful assembly and public disorder linked to a campaign demanding compensation for Teso War victims.
Soroti residents remain sharply divided over the case. Supporters of MP Alobo claim the charges are politically motivated, accusing authorities of failing to prevent the school arson while unfairly targeting their elected representative.
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"Instead of finding those truly responsible for the school fire, they are using this case to silence our leaders. Justice should not be selective," said Samuel Ochen, a local resident.
However, government officials and security agencies insist the charges are based on credible evidence and that the legal process must be followed.
The next hearing is scheduled for March 31, 2025, when the court is expected to address the specific charges against Alobo, Ebwalu, and Amuriat.
Authorities have urged calm as civil society organizations continue monitoring the proceedings to ensure a fair trial.
With plea bargain discussions ongoing, the fate of the accused remains uncertain, but calls for justice and accountability continue to grow.
