Molly Katanga, facing charges for the alleged murder of her husband, businessman Henry Katanga, has made a second attempt to secure temporary release from prison citing health concerns.
Previously denied bail on April 9th, 2024, by High Court Criminal Division Judge Isaac Muwata for failing to demonstrate exceptional circumstances, Molly has presented new medical evidence in her latest application.
In this latest bid for bail, Molly submitted a medical report from the Uganda Prisons Service indicating that her health conditions couldn’t be adequately addressed while in custody.
The report outlined a range of health issues, including hypertension, multiple breast masses, paranasal sinusitis, vertigo, and post-traumatic stress disorder. Additionally, it was revealed that Molly’s condition had worsened since her initial examination, with her fibrotic breast masses multiplying.
The prison’s health services concluded that they lacked the capability to fully assess and monitor Molly’s condition. The report also highlighted that Molly hadn’t received recommended treatments, such as trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy and follow-up services by an ENT surgeon.
Molly’s legal team from Kampala Associated Advocates argued that her deteriorating health and the previous court’s acknowledgment of substantial sureties and fixed abode warranted her release on bail.
As of now, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has yet to respond to Katanga’s bail application. However, Judge Isaac Muwata has set a ruling date for May 21st, 2024, indicating his intention to proceed with or without the Prosecution’s response. The Prosecution, represented by State Attorney Richard Birivumbuka, has until May 13th, 2024, to file their response.
Molly Katanga is jointly charged with her two daughters, Martha Nkwanzi and Kakwanza Patricia, accused of tampering with evidence related to their father’s murder.
While the daughters and other co-accused individuals were released on bail over two months ago, Molly remains in remand at Luzira Women’s Prison.
