Today, February 21, 2024, the High Court is set to announce its decision regarding the bail application filed by the daughters of Molly Katanga. These sisters are among the suspects facing charges related to the death of their father, Katanga, who succumbed to a gunshot wound following a confrontation with their mother at their residence in Mbuya on November 2, 2023.
The bail application is also being sought by George Amanyire and Charles Otai, who assert their roles as primary providers for their families.
Presiding over the case at the Criminal Division of the High Court in Kampala, Judge Isaac Muwata is expected to deliver the ruling.
Representing the state are Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Samali Wakooli, alongside Chief State Attorneys Jonathan Muwaganya and Anna Kiiza. The defense counsel comprises MacDosman Kabega, Jet Tumwebze, and Elison Karuhanga.
During the bail hearing, the defense presented sureties for Martha Nkwanzi, one of the accused, including her husband Christian Kivuma, Willis Bashaasha (Director of National Resistance Movement Manifesto Implementation Unit), and Harriet Mucunguzi (Property Manager at National Social Security Fund).
Nkwanzi cited her recent childbirth on November 19, 2023, at Roswell Women and Children’s Hospital, stating her need for post-maternity treatment and breastfeeding obligations as grounds for bail.
The proposed sureties for the other accused individuals include various prominent figures such as Wilson Tumwine, Merian Zakye (Shell Uganda Manager), Herbert Kamugisha (Real Estate Dealer), and others.
However, the prosecution opposed bail, expressing readiness for trial with witnesses. Additionally, they requested stringent conditions if bail is granted, such as depositing land titles and passports with the court, weekly reporting to the registrar, and sureties bonded for a significant sum of 100 million shillings.
A preliminary police report reveals that the incident was reported on November 2, 2023, at Bugolobi Police Station. Katanga was found deceased with a gunshot wound to his head, while Molly Katanga was discovered unconscious. The report indicates that a pistol was retrieved from the scene.
