Molly Katanga Faces Charges in High-Profile Murder Trial
KAMPALA – The atmosphere in the Kampala High Court was charged with tension on Thursday, March 13, 2025, as Molly Katanga appeared virtually to face serious charges related to the fatal shooting of her husband, businessman Henry Katanga. The trial has garnered significant public interest, not only due to the nature of the crime but also because of the high-profile individuals involved, including Molly’s daughters and their domestic servant.
Allegations of Evidence Fabrication
The courtroom drama intensified as defense lawyers Elison Karuhanga and McDusman Kabega launched a fierce attack on the credibility of Police forensic analyst Enock Kanene. They accused him of fabricating crucial call data evidence that the prosecution relied upon to build its case against Molly Katanga. The defense’s strategy hinged on discrediting Kanene’s testimony, which they argued was riddled with inconsistencies and inaccuracies.
Karuhanga meticulously pointed out discrepancies in the call logs presented by Kanene, particularly concerning calls allegedly made by witnesses to the deceased and other individuals involved in the case. “My lord, as he was giving his evidence, Mr. Nyagweso said he called his uncle at 8 am. There is no call,” Karuhanga asserted, emphasizing the absence of this critical piece of evidence in the provided data.
The defense team further highlighted that several calls, including those made to Martha Katanga, were conspicuously missing from the records. “I want to put it to you that this is a complete concoction from you,” Karuhanga declared, aggressively cross-examining Kanene and challenging the authenticity of the digital evidence presented in court.
Discrepancies in Call Data
The defense’s scrutiny did not stop at mere accusations; they presented evidence showcasing multiple discrepancies between Kanene’s report and certified call data records from telecom companies. They specifically identified a list of 20 calls that were absent from the telecom companies’ data, raising serious questions about the validity of Kanene’s testimony. “All that is your fertile source of imagination,” Karuhanga stated, underscoring the defense’s determination to expose the alleged inconsistencies.
The defense also probed into Kanene’s qualifications and the analytical methods he employed, questioning the validity of the software used and his understanding of data gathering. “We are going through all the 20 numbers to prove that you fabricated the evidence,” Karuhanga insisted, demonstrating the defense’s commitment to dismantling the prosecution’s case.
CCTV Footage and Blood Evidence
The cross-examination further delved into the details surrounding the incident, including the timing of police arrival and the alleged presence of an ambulance at the scene. Karuhanga also raised questions about the blood evidence found at the scene, suggesting that it could indicate that Molly Katanga was, in fact, a victim rather than a perpetrator.
After a lunch break, Kabega joined the cross-examination, focusing on Kanene’s qualifications and the accuracy of his report. He highlighted that Kanene’s diploma required only one pass at O-level and questioned the legitimacy of his certification as a digital examiner. “You have a four-day certificate in forensics examination,” Kabega stated, challenging Kanene’s expertise and further undermining the prosecution’s reliance on his testimony.
Concerns Over Evidence Handling
The defense raised significant concerns regarding the custody and handling of digital evidence. They questioned whether proper protocols were followed during the collection, storage, and analysis of the data, seeking to identify potential breaches in the chain of custody. “In your report, did you indicate when each exhibit was examined?” Kabega asked, casting doubt on the integrity of the evidence presented.
Despite objections from the prosecution, led by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Samali Wakooli and Chief State Attorney Jonathan Muwanganya, the defense team persisted in their challenge of the digital evidence, which has become a focal point of the trial.
Background of the Case
Molly Katanga has been in Luzira Prison since her arrest, accused of murdering her husband on November 2, 2023. Her defense team contends that she was incapacitated due to injuries sustained on the same day and could not have committed the crime. The legal battle has been further complicated by the involvement of her two daughters, Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanzi, as well as their domestic servant George Amanyire and nurse Charles Otai, who face charges related to being accessories after the fact of murder.
The trial has been marked by delays and controversy, captivating public attention due to its high-profile nature. As the proceedings continue, the courtroom remains a battleground for legal minds, with the outcome poised to have significant implications for all parties involved. The defense’s aggressive strategy to challenge the prosecution’s evidence is indicative of the high stakes at play in this dramatic case.