The High Court of Uganda in Kampala has ruled that businesswoman Molly Katanga has a case to answer in connection with the fatal shooting of her husband, Henry Katanga, at their home in Mbuya.
Court Finds Prima Facie Case
According to local media reports, the court determined that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to require Molly Katanga to defend herself against murder charges in the death of the prominent businessman. Henry Katanga was found dead from a gunshot wound at the couple’s residence on November 2, 2023. Molly Katanga was discovered unconscious at the scene with injuries.
In its ruling delivered on Thursday, the court said the evidence on record, if left unchallenged, could sustain a conviction. Prosecutors cited forensic findings including gunshot residue allegedly detected on Molly Katanga’s hands and the presence of her DNA on a pistol registered in the deceased’s name.
The prosecution further argued that there were signs of interference with the crime scene, including reports of a moved body and cleaned bloodstains. The State relied in part on the “last seen” doctrine, contending that Molly Katanga was the last known person with the deceased before his death.
Co-Accused Also Put on Their Defence
The court also ruled that Henry Katanga’s daughters, Patricia Kakwanza and Martha Nkwazi, have a case to answer. Additionally, the family’s shamba boy, George Amanyire, and nursing officer Dr. Charles Otai were found to have cases to answer.
The four are facing charges related to allegedly destroying evidence and being accessories after the fact to murder. The court held that the prosecution had established a prima facie case requiring each of them to present a defence.
Trial Moves to Defence Phase
With the ruling, the case now proceeds to the defence stage, where the accused persons will have the opportunity to present their evidence and call witnesses. The next phase of the trial is expected to begin on March 26.
The case has drawn significant public attention since 2023, given the profile of the deceased businessman and the circumstances surrounding his death. Proceedings have spanned more than two years.
