Kampala, Uganda — The highly anticipated Katanga trial has hit a huge snag as key witnesses failed to appear before the High Court on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, stalling proceedings.
State Attorney Jonathan Muwaganya informed the court presided over by Judge Isaac Muwata that their undisclosed witness arrived late in Kampala and was unable to proceed due to the absence of the store person in charge.
Muwaganya requested an adjournment to Wednesday, November 6, which Judge Muwata granted, citing an understanding of transportation challenges.
Commentators have criticized the state for failing to coordinate the witness’s appearance despite having a three-week break to prepare. This is not the first time the state has faced issues with witness availability, having previously struggled with the 10th witness.
The trial will continue tomorrow, Wednesday, November 5, 2024, with the defense seeking to prove the innocence of Molly Katanga and four other defendants, including her two daughters, Patricia Kankwanzi and Martha Nkwanzi, and the family nurse, Charles Otai.
Defense lawyers have vigorously challenged prosecution witnesses in previous hearings. Before the trial’s two-week break, judge Muwata made a crucial ruling, admitting evidence that implicated Noame Nyangweso, Henry Katanga’s step-sister, in coercing key witness George Amanyire.
The evidence revealed Nyangweso’s multiple visits to Amanyire at Kigo Prison, allegedly forcing him to alter his testimony and frame Molly Katanga for her husband’s murder.
The prosecution has so far presented 10 witnesses attempting to implicate Molly Katanga in her husband’s death. However, her defence team has systematically challenged the evidence, highlighting inconsistencies in witness testimonies.
