The High Court has set a date for the hearing of Molly Katanga’s bail application. Molly Katanga faces charges related to the murder of her husband, Henry Katanga. High Court Judge Isaac Muwata has scheduled the hearing for the 3rd of April. This decision follows a closed-door meeting held on Tuesday involving both the prosecution team and the defense lawyers.
Representing the prosecution were Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions (ADPP) Samali Wakooli, Chief State Attorney Jonathan Mugawanya, and Anna Kiiza. On the defense side, senior counsel Peter Kabatsi, MacDusuman Kabega, Elison Karuhanga, Bruce Musinguzi, and John Jet Tumwebaze appeared for the accused. However, details of the discussions within the chambers remain undisclosed.
According to a source, Judge Muwata instructed Molly Katanga’s legal team to serve the prosecution with all relevant documents before the hearing on April 3rd. In her bail application, Molly asserts her right to the presumption of innocence guaranteed by the constitution. She also presents substantial sureties to ensure her presence in court if released on bail. These sureties include John Patrick Kaboyo, Geoffrey Kamuntu, Gen. Emmanuel Nyamunywanisa, and Margaret Mugisa Muhanga.
Molly, aged 55, argues in her affidavit that her release on bail is crucial for various reasons. She emphasizes her need for medical care, time with her family, the opportunity to prepare her defense adequately, and the exercise of her right to liberty and a fair trial. Furthermore, she expresses readiness to comply with any bail conditions set by the court.
George Amanyire, a domestic worker, and Charles Otai, a nursing officer who responded to the incident at the deceased’s home, face charges as accessories in the murder case. They have also been granted bail pending trial.
Background
Henry Katanga, a prominent businessman, died from a gunshot wound sustained on November 2, 2023, following an alleged altercation with his wife, Molly, at their residence on Mbuya Chwa II Road. The prosecution contends that Molly fatally shot her husband with malice aforethought.
According to the indictment, Henry Katanga succumbed to gunshot injuries from his compact pistol. Molly’s DNA was found predominantly on the trigger of the murder weapon. Additionally, gunpowder residue was detected on swabs taken from Molly’s hands.
Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) footage, though allegedly tampered with, is deemed crucial evidence for the trial. Molly admits spending the night before the incident with her husband but claims ignorance of the events leading to his death and her subsequent hospitalization.
Days before his death, Henry Katanga had expressed fears for his safety to a close relative. He reportedly took measures to secure his important documents and sought legal advice. Molly Katanga allegedly tracked her husband’s movements, prompting him to change his phone settings and limit his outings.
On the morning of November 2, 2023, witnesses heard commotion from the Katangas’ bedroom, followed by a gunshot. Molly emerged and summoned assistance. Subsequently, Henry Katanga was found dead, and Molly was taken to Bugolobi Medical Centre and later to IHK.
