Ezra Kashumbusha.
KAMPALA, January 17, 2024 | The bail hearing for four individuals implicated in the alleged destruction of evidence related to the murder of City Businessman Henry Katanga has been adjourned. The suspects, currently on remand, will continue to remain in custody as the court awaits the resolution of a pending criminal revision application.
High Court Judge Isaac Muwata presided over the proceedings and decided to adjourn the bail hearing after the state’s submission. Wakhooli Samalie, representing the State, informed the court about the existence of a substantive bail application at the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Nakawa, currently on hold until the resolution of the criminal revision application.
“I am aware of the pending revision matter. It is imperative this matter is heard after the hearing and ruling in the revision case. The bail application will be mentioned on the same date on January 24,” stated Judge Muwata.
The suspects, represented by their lawyer Elison Karuhanga, contested the State’s submission, asserting that they had withdrawn the bail application at the Chief Magistrate’s Court. They urged the court to proceed with the bail hearing, emphasizing that the state had already filed its response while awaiting the outcome of the pending application for criminal revision.
The four suspects, including Patricia Katanga (Katanga’s daughter), Martha Katanga (also Katanga’s daughter), Nkwanzi Katanga, Doctor Charles Otai, and George Amanyire (a domestic worker at Katanga’s home at the time of the incident), face charges related to the destruction of evidence and being accessories after the murder of Henry Katanga.
In their bail application, the suspects argued that the charges against them are bailable offenses. They highlighted their entitlement to the constitutional presumption of innocence, presented substantial sureties, and affirmed their status as law-abiding citizens with no history of criminal offenses.
Meanwhile, Molly Katanga, also facing charges in connection with her husband’s murder, remains hospitalized. She is on criminal summons for her alleged involvement in the tragic incident that occurred at their home in Mbuya Chwa 2, Nakawa Division.
