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Molly Katanga being escorted to court
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By Our Reporter
KAMPALA - The trial of Molly Katanga, accused of murdering her husband, businessman Henry Katanga, saw a forensic expert face intense scrutiny on Thursday. The Director of Forensics at the Uganda Police Force, Andrew Kizimula Mubiru, was cross-examined on the DNA analysis conducted in the case. Molly Katanga, along with her daughters Patricia Kakwanza and Martha Nkwanzi, as well as two others, is on trial for their alleged involvement in the 2023 murder.
Defense lawyer Ellison Karuhanga in the murder case of businessman Henry Katanga, during court session
During cross-examination by defense lawyer Elison Karuhanga, Mubiru was questioned about the software used in analyzing DNA evidence. The defense suggested that outdated software, Euroformix version 3.2.0, was used to analyze DNA samples, raising concerns about the reliability of the results. Mubiru admitted that a newer version, 4.0.7, existed at the time of analysis, but defended his team's choice, stating that the software was still functional and compatible with their systems.
The debate over the DNA swabs taken from the murder weapon's trigger was a focal point. Mubiru confirmed that a swab from the trigger had been consumed during laboratory testing, leading the defense to argue that there was no concrete evidence before the court apart from Mubiru’s testimony. This prompted concerns from Karuhanga, who questioned whether the destruction of the swab constituted a loss of crucial evidence.
Chief state attorney Anna Kiiza, Assistant DPP Samali Wakooli and chief state attorney Jonathan Muwagana consulting each other during court
Mubiru also testified that DNA from at least three individuals was found on the trigger, but none of it belonged to Henry Katanga, Molly Katanga, or Patricia Kakwanza. The defense contended that this raised doubts about the prosecution's case, as the DNA mixture did not implicate the accused directly.
Justice Isaac Muwata, presiding over the case, listened intently as the defense pointed out that the forensic software used was accompanied by a disclaimer warning that it was used "at your own risk." Karuhanga argued that such a disclaimer should raise red flags, as the risk involved could impact the fairness of the trial.
As the trial continues, both sides are expected to delve deeper into the forensic evidence. The next hearing is set for September 26, where cross-examination of Mubiru will continue, and the defense will further challenge the DNA evidence that the prosecution hinges upon.
Henry Katanga, a prominent businessman, was shot dead in November 2023 at his home in Kampala, and the case has since drawn significant public interest due to the high-profile individuals involved.
Torch Media Africa
