Court: Dr. Francis Onebe and Guard Have Case to Answer in Wife's Murder

A High Court judge has determined that Dr. Francis Onebe, a senior accountant, and his co-accused, security guard Bonny Oriekot, have sufficient evidence against them to warrant a defense in the murder of Dr. Onebe’s wife, Asio Mary Immaculate Onebe.

Justice Andrew Khaukha delivered the ruling, stating that the prosecution had successfully established a prima facie case against both men. This means the court is satisfied that a case exists and the accused must now present their side.

The prosecution alleges that between January and September 2021, Dr. Onebe, Oriekot, and others unlawfully caused the death of Immaculate Onebe. Her decomposing body was tragically discovered in a septic tank at the couple’s home in Munyonyo, Kampala.

Justice Khaukha noted that 17 prosecution witnesses testified during the trial, and their evidence was subjected to cross-examination by the defense. The judge also clarified the procedural history of the case, mentioning that he took over the trial at a later stage.

Following the ruling, the prosecution requested the defense to disclose its evidence and list of witnesses, a standard procedure before the defense phase begins. The defense lawyer assured the court of full compliance within the allotted timeframe.

Dr. Onebe, aged 63, and Oriekot, 26, will now prepare to present their defense at dates to be scheduled by the court registrar. The judiciary emphasized its commitment to transparency in handling this high-profile case.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)