By Nathan Eyagu 

SOROTI - Soroti City Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Joan Alobo Acom, has been acquitted of all charges in a case that had attracted significant political attention. 

The Soroti Chief Magistrate’s Court on Monday dismissed charges of arson, malicious damage, theft, housebreaking, and incitement to violence against the MP and twelve co-accused individuals, citing "want of prosecution" as the reason for the ruling.

The case, which had been ongoing for five months, centered around violent protests that erupted in Soroti in March 2025 following the tragic murder of five-year-old Joan Faith Apio.

The young girl’s body was discovered in a school latrine, sparking public outrage. Demonstrations turned violent, with protesters storming Jozan Nursery and Primary School, setting fire to school property, and looting several items, including mattresses and maize flour.

In the wake of these events, prosecutors accused MP Alobo and the other defendants of inciting the violence, as well as engaging in property destruction and theft. Chief State Attorney Paul Okello led the prosecution, but despite repeated adjournments, the state failed to present sufficient evidence or reliable witnesses to substantiate the charges.

Chief Magistrate Hilda Bakanansa Walaga, in delivering her judgment, emphasized the importance of fairness in the judicial process. She noted that the prosecution’s failure to pursue the case diligently had led to unnecessary delays, affecting the accused individuals, some of whom were public figures.

"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," Walaga ruled.

Defense lawyer Edmund Elasu, who represented MP Alobo, welcomed the court’s decision, calling it a victory for justice and a setback for politically motivated charges.

"How can anyone believe that an elected Member of Parliament would be involved in stealing mattresses, soda, and maize flour? These charges were meant to tarnish her reputation and undermine her political career," Elasu argued.

Hon. Alobo, visibly relieved after the ruling, expressed gratitude to the judicial system for upholding the principle of justice. "Today, justice has prevailed. My opponents thought this case would end my political career, but God has vindicated me," she said. The MP further vowed to continue her fight for justice, not only for the late Joan Faith Apio but also for better accountability in Uganda's education and security sectors.

The case had taken on political dimensions, with Alobo’s supporters viewing the charges as an attempt to discredit her, particularly as the 2026 general elections approach. Political analysts believe that the dismissal of the case could strengthen Alobo’s position, portraying her as a victim of political persecution.

"For Hon. Alobo, this acquittal serves to solidify her narrative as someone who has been unfairly targeted by political opponents," said political commentator Patrick Aisu.

However, some critics argue that Alobo’s association with the violent demonstrations may continue to pose a challenge in her political future, particularly with conservative voters who may view her involvement in the protests negatively.

The dismissal of the case also brings to light broader concerns about the functioning of Uganda’s justice system, particularly when it comes to politically sensitive matters. The ruling serves as a reminder of the state’s responsibility to pursue cases diligently and the need for due process to be followed in all trials, especially those involving public figures.

At the same time, the murder of Joan Faith Apio remains an unresolved tragedy, leaving many in the community yearning for justice for the young girl. The case has underscored the need for greater accountability and measures to protect vulnerable children in Uganda's schools