Samali Wakoli, Assistant DPP, expressed concerns during a court appearance in the matter of businessman Henry Katanga. Wakoli, alongside fellow state attorneys, cited their recent involvement and lack of information about the case, requesting an adjournment due to incomplete inquiries.
Lawyer MacDusman Kabega, representing the accused, acknowledged the State’s request for an adjournment but asserted surprise at the lack of knowledge about the case within the DPP’s office. Kabega suggested the release of the suspects and initiated a bail application process, emphasizing the simplicity of the charges.
Wakoli clarified that, despite their office handling the case, the involved officers were different, and they had only recently received the file. The State sought time to familiarize themselves and proposed an adjournment to January 8, 2024, aligning with earlier criminal summons.
Kabega contested Wakoli’s claim of unfamiliarity with the charges, asserting that the DPP’s office had sanctioned them. He proposed proceeding with the bail application immediately, offering to provide necessary documents promptly.
Bruce Musinguzi, part of the defence counsel, expressed concern about the recurring trend of different DPP officers claiming unfamiliarity with the case. Musinguzi urged the court to hear the bail application that day, highlighting the ample time the State had for preparation.
The magistrate, acknowledging the turnover of state attorneys and their need to review the file, granted the adjournment to January 8th, 2024, allowing the State additional time.
Businessman Henry Katanga was allegedly shot and killed at his Kampala home. The incident occurred in Mbuya Hill on November 2. Three individuals, including Katanga’s daughter, a medical doctor, and a domestic worker, were subsequently arraigned in connection with the killing and sent to Luzira Prison after a court appearance before Nakawa Chief Magistrates’ Court.
