Molly Katanga, facing charges of murdering her husband Henry Katanga, will discover her bail fate on April 9. The decision will be made by the presiding criminal division judge, Isaac Muwata, who scheduled the hearing after hearing submissions from both her legal team and the prosecution.
The proceedings occurred amidst tight security measures, following an attempted protest by individuals wearing black T-shirts adorned with Molly’s portrait outside the courtroom. Representing Molly, lawyers Peter Kabatsi, MacDosman Kabega, Elison Karuhanga, John Jet Tumwebaze, and Bruce Musinguzi requested her release on bail. They argued that she is entitled to the presumption of innocence and has substantial sureties to guarantee her court appearances.
Among the proposed sureties are John Patrick Kaboyo, Geoffrey Kamuntu, Maj. Gen (rtd) Emmanuel Nyamunywanisa, and Margaret Mugisa Muhanga. Conversely, Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Samali Wakooli, alongside chief state attorneys Jonathan Muwaganya and Anna Kiiza, urged the court to dismiss the bail application, emphasizing the importance of focusing resources on the impending trial.
Wakooli argued that granting Molly bail would not serve the interests of justice, citing a similar case precedent. Additionally, the prosecution raised concerns about the suitability of certain proposed sureties, questioning their age and ongoing legal issues.
Despite sustaining head injuries, 55-year-old Molly has been in remand since February. She appeared in court via Zoom, sporting a bandage on her head.
The charges against Molly stem from the death of her husband, Henry Katanga, a well-known businessman. The incident occurred on November 2, 2023, following a reported verbal altercation between the couple at their residence on Mbuya Chwa II Road.
Prosecutors allege that Molly fatally shot her husband with his own pistol, resulting in a gunshot wound to the left side of his head. Forensic evidence, including DNA analysis and gunpowder residue, implicates Molly in the crime.
Investigations revealed that Henry Katanga had expressed concerns to a close relative about his safety prior to his death. He allegedly feared he would be harmed and even sought legal advice to draft a will as a precautionary measure.
Further evidence suggests that Henry Katanga took steps to protect himself, including securing important documents and changing his phone password. Witnesses reported hearing a struggle and a gunshot on the morning of the incident, prompting immediate action.
Upon discovering her husband’s condition, Molly summoned assistance and accompanied him to Bugolobi Medical Centre and later to International Hospital Kampala (IHK).
