Molly Katanga has case to answer in husband’s murder – rules Court

Kampala, Uganda: The High Court in Kampala has ruled that Molly Katanga, widow of late businessman Henry Katanga, has a case to answer in connection with her husband’s murder.

In a ruling delivered on Thursday, High Court Judge Rosette Comfort Kania held that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case against Molly Katanga, requiring her to defend herself on the charge of murder.

Justice Kania observed that evidence before court showed that Molly Katanga was the last person seen with the deceased on November 2, 2023, the day Henry Katanga was fatally shot at their home in Mbuya, Kampala.

“There were only two occupants, the widow and the deceased. The accused person was the last person seen with the deceased. Having considered all that, the prosecution has succeeded in adducing evidence to form a prima facie case requiring each of the accused to explain their actions,” Justice Kania ruled.

The court further found that the four co-accused persons also have cases to answer and will be required to present their defences.

The co-accused include the couple’s daughters, Patricia Kakwanzi and Martha Nkwazi Katanga, family nursing officer Charles Otai, and domestic worker George Amanyire.

According to the prosecution, Molly Katanga shot and killed her husband, after which the co-accused allegedly participated in efforts to conceal evidence and shield her from justice.

While Molly Katanga faces the principal charge of murder, the four co-accused are charged with lesser offences, including destruction of evidence and being accessories after the fact.

The ruling means that Molly Katanga, who has been on remand at Luzira Prison for more than a year, will now be required to formally open her defence when the trial resumes.

Court is expected to set dates for the defence hearing.