The High Court of Uganda in Kampala has ruled that Molly Katanga has a case to answer in the murder of her husband, prominent businessman Henry Katanga.
In a ruling delivered today, trial judge Rosette Comfort Kania held that the prosecution presented sufficient evidence to require Katanga to defend herself against the charges.
Justice Kania noted that the accused was the last person seen with the deceased on November 2, 2023, the day Henry Katanga was fatally shot at their Kampala home.
The court relied heavily on circumstantial evidence and the “last seen” legal doctrine, with the prosecution arguing that Henry Katanga and his wife were the only individuals in the master bedroom at the time of the shooting.
The judge also highlighted what she described as suspicious conduct by Molly Katanga following the incident, including an alleged reluctance to record a police statement, claims of injuries from a traffic accident, and interference with evidence, such as moving the body and the suspected murder weapon.
Evidence presented to the court included gunshot residue and Molly Katanga’s DNA found on the pistol allegedly used in the shooting and at the crime scene.
The ruling follows submissions by the prosecution team led by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Samali Wakooli and State Attorney Jonathan Muwaganya, who opposed a defense application of “no case to answer.”
Justice Kania also ruled that the four co-accused must open their defense.
Molly Katanga is jointly charged with her daughters, Patricia Kakwanzi, family nursing officer Charles Otai, and domestic worker George Amanyire.
The prosecution alleges that she fatally shot her husband and that the co-accused later attempted to cover up the crime.
Being placed on her defense does not equate to a finding of guilt but indicates that the prosecution has established a prima facie case requiring an explanation.
Molly Katanga has been on remand at Luzira Prison for over a year and may now present her defense and call witnesses before the court determines her fate.
By Alex Magala
26th Feb 2026
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