By A new judge has been appointed to preside over the high-profile murder case involving five individuals accused of orchestrating the killing of Kampala businessman Henry Katanga.
The case was scheduled for further hearing on January 21 but instead convened in the chambers of Deputy Registrar Festo Nsenga. The registrar informed the parties that Justice Isaac Muwata, the previous trial judge, is unable to continue due to health reasons.
“Before we proceed, I want to inform this court that we are changing judges because the trial judge, Justice Muwata, is indisposed,” Registrar Nsenga announced.
Although the name of the new judge was not disclosed during the brief chamber meeting, sources confirm that Justice Rossette Comfort Kania, a judge from the Criminal Division of the High Court in Kampala, will take over the case.
Case Background
At the time of the last hearing on December 5, 2024, 10 prosecution witnesses had testified against the accused. The trial was postponed to allow Justice Muwata time to recover, but his inability to resume necessitated the reassignment.
The accused include the widow, Molly Katanga, and her two daughters, Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanza. Also charged are Charles Otai, a medic who was among the first to arrive at the scene, and George Amanyire, a shamba boy employed at the Katanga residence.
On November 2, 2023, Henry Katanga was found dead at his home in Mbuya, Kampala, following what investigators suspect was a domestic altercation with his wife. The widow, Molly Katanga, has since been identified as the primary suspect.
Bail Application
During the proceedings, defense lawyers Jet Tumwebaze and Elison Karuhanga informed the court that their client, Molly Katanga, had filed a fresh bail application. Registrar Nsenga noted that the new judge will hear the application on February 7.
This marks the third attempt by the widow to secure bail. Her previous applications were denied by Justice Muwata, who cited the absence of exceptional circumstances such as illness or advanced age. The judge also emphasized the gravity of the offense and argued that with investigations completed, it was prudent to expedite the trial.
The prosecution, represented by Jonathan Muwaganya and Anna Kiiza, has maintained its readiness to proceed with the case.
Next Steps
As Justice Kania takes over, the court will aim to ensure a swift and fair resolution to the case, which has drawn significant public attention due to its high-profile nature and the circumstances surrounding Katanga’s death.
