The High Court in Kampala, under the jurisdiction of Justice Isaac Muwata, has declined Molly Katanga’s request for bail. Katanga, a key suspect in the killing of businessman Henry Katanga, who passed away from gunshot wounds last November, had sought bail on medical grounds. She cited severe injuries sustained during an alleged domestic altercation on the day of her husband’s death as the basis for her application.
Katanga, represented by lawyers Peter Kabatsi and MacDusman Kabega, emphasized her urgent need for specialized medical care, which she claims is unavailable at Luzira prison, where she has been detained for two months. Despite undergoing five surgeries and having a finger amputated, her bail plea was rejected by Justice Muwata.
The prosecution, led by Chief State Attorney Samalie Wakooli, opposed the bail application, expressing concerns about potential interference with ongoing investigations and asserting that the case was nearing trial.
During the ruling, Justice Muwata highlighted the absence of communication from Luzira prison’s medical department confirming their inability to handle Katanga’s medical needs. He stated that, according to the law, a medical exception must be certified by Luzira Prison, which was not provided in this case.
Katanga, who participated in the bail hearing via audio-visual link from Luzira Women’s Prison, was not physically present in court.
