By Spy Uganda
The high-profile murder trial of Kampala businessman Henry Katanga has been adjourned once again, following the absence of a court assessor who was reported to be unwell.
Mr. Katanga’s widow, Molly Katanga, is the prime suspect in the case and stands accused of murdering her husband on November 2, 2023, at their matrimonial home in Mbuya, Kampala. Authorities allege the incident followed a domestic altercation between the couple, which resulted in Mr. Katanga’s death.
Mrs. Katanga is jointly on trial with four co-accused, including her daughters, Martha Nkwanzi and Patricia Kakwanza, who face charges of accessory after the fact and tampering with evidence, rather than murder. Also charged are Charles Otai, a medic reportedly among the first to arrive at the scene, and George Amanyire, a shamba boy employed at the Katanga residence.
During the session, the prosecution was expected to present its 13th witness. However, proceedings could not continue in the absence of one of the court assessors.
“We have received information that one of the assessors is unwell. We pray for an adjournment, as proceedings in a capital offence trial cannot continue without all assessors present,” stated Ms. Samali Wakooli, Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions.
In Uganda’s legal system, assessors are laypersons who assist in capital trials by observing proceedings and providing non-binding opinions to the presiding judge. While the final verdict rests with the judge, the assessors’ input plays a crucial advisory role in such cases.
Court Registrar Ssalamu Ngoobi, who was standing in for the trial judge, granted the request for adjournment and rescheduled the hearing for Thursday, April 24, 2025. Responding to concerns raised by defense counsel Mr. Peter Kabatsi regarding the assessor’s return, Mr. Ngoobi assured the court that the illness was not serious and expressed confidence the assessor would be present by the next hearing date.
The trial continues to draw significant public interest due to the prominence of the individuals involved and the circumstances surrounding the case.
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