The High Court in Kampala has ruled that Molly Katanga, the widow of slain businessman Henry Katanga, has a case to answer in relation to her husband’s murder.
Delivering the ruling on Thursday, trial judge Justice Rosette Comfort Kania said the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case, requiring Molly Katanga to defend herself against the murder charge.
Justice Kania noted 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 held that all 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, a family nursing officer, Charles Otai, and a 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 the suspect from justice.
While Molly Katanga faces the main charge of murder, the four co-accused are charged with lesser offences, including destroying evidence and aiding the principal suspect after the killing.
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.
The court is expected to set dates for the defence hearing.
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