A new judge has taken over the high-profile murder trial involving five individuals accused of the death of Kampala businessman Henry Katanga. The reassignment was announced during chamber proceedings on January 21, led by Deputy Registrar Festo Nsenga.

Registrar Nsenga explained that the previous trial judge, Justice Isaac Muwata, was unable to continue due to health reasons. Although the name of the new judge was not initially disclosed, sources confirm that Justice Rossette Comfort Kania from the Criminal Division of the High Court in Kampala will now preside over the case.

The trial has seen significant developments, with 10 prosecution witnesses testifying since the case commenced. However, it had been adjourned for several weeks in anticipation of Justice Muwata’s recovery, which did not materialize.

Background of the Case

The suspects include the widow, Molly Katanga, and her daughters, Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanza. Additionally, Charles Otai, a medic who was among the first to arrive at the crime scene, and George Amanyire, a shamba boy employed by the Katanga family, are also accused.

On November 2, 2023, Mr. Katanga was discovered dead at his Mbuya residence in Kampala, following what authorities suspect was a domestic altercation with his wife. Molly Katanga, the primary suspect, was subsequently arrested and charged with murder.

During the proceedings, defense lawyers Jet Tumwebaze and Elison Karuhanga revealed that the widow has filed a fresh bail application, which will be heard on February 7 by the new judge.

This marks the widow’s third attempt to secure bail. Her two previous applications were denied by Justice Muwata, who cited the gravity of the offense and the lack of exceptional circumstances, such as illness or advanced age, as grounds for rejecting her plea. Justice Muwata also emphasized that fast-tracking the trial would be a more effective way to resolve the case.

The prosecution team, comprising Mr. Jonathan Muwaganya and Ms. Anna Kiiza, has opposed the bail applications, arguing that the seriousness of the charges necessitates the accused’s continued detention.

The trial is expected to proceed under the guidance of Justice Kania, with further hearings aimed at delivering a timely resolution to this high-profile case.