The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | Molly Katanga and four others have to defend themselves over the death of her husband, businessman Henry Katanga, high court has ruled. In a ruling delivered on Thursday, Lady Justice Rosette Comfort Kania said the circumstantial evidence presented by the prosecution points to malice aforethought and requires each of the accused persons to explain their actions.
Court heard that 65-year-old Henry Katanga died from a gunshot wound at his home on Chwa II Road in Mbuya, Nakawa Division, on November 2, 2023. The death was initially reported as a suicide. However, in her ruling, Justice Kania said the prosecution relied on the doctrine of last seen, noting that only the deceased and his widow were in the bedroom at the time of the shooting, and that Molly Katanga was the last person to see him alive.
“The accused is required to explain how she was attacked, yet there were no signs of disturbance in the bedroom,” the judge ruled.
Martha Nkwanzi, another daughter of Molly Katanga, was also found to have a case to answer for allegedly tampering with evidence that would have been used in the trial. Family shamba boy George Amanyire and nursing officer Charles Otai were accused of cleaning the body and attempting to clean bloodstains in the room.
Justice Kania ruled that although Henry Katanga died of a gunshot injury, the actions of the co-accused — including the two daughters, the shamba boy, and the nursing officer — amounted to acts of being accessories. “Each of the accused must give an explanation of their actions immediately after the death,” Kania held.
She informed the accused of their right to give sworn testimony, make unsworn statements, or remain silent in accordance with the Constitution. Following the ruling, defence lawyer Peter Kabatsi asked the court for time to consult with his clients and organise witnesses. The case was adjourned to March 26, 2026, for a defence hearing. The prosecution team includes Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Samalie Wakooli and Chief State Attorneys Jonathan Muwaganya and Anna Kiiza.
Former Deputy Attorney General Mwesigwa Rukutana, alongside Brian Rubaihayo and Edgar Ayebazibwe, is representing the interests of the deceased’s family on a watching brief.
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