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@kfm Wed, 20 Nov 2024 05:59:56
Main candidates in Namibia’s presidential election
BY REUTERS Namibians are set to vote for a new president and parliament on Nov. 27, after Hage Geingob died and was replaced as president on a interim basis by his deputy, Nangolo Mbumba. The election could mark a historic shift in the country’s political landscape if the ruling SWAPO party, in power since independence in 1990, loses control of the presidency or parliament for the first time. The president is directly elected by voters and needs to garner more than 50% of votes to win. Support for SWAPO dropped from 87% in the presidential election in 2014 to 56% in 2019. Here are the main candidates running for president: NETUMBO NANDI-NDAITWAH Vice President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, 72, is also vice […] The post Main candidates in Namibia’s presidential election first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
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@kfm Wed, 20 Nov 2024 06:05:24
Govt adopts Icelandic model to curb alcohol, drug abuse
The government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, has announced the full implementation of the Icelandic Prevention Model to address the rising alcohol and substance abuse among school students, university students, and the general public. The Icelandic Prevention Model is a community-based prevention program that employs innovative strategies to reduce alcohol, drug, and substance abuse among young people and adults. Pall Richardson, CEO of Planet Youth, a global organization dedicated to adapting the Icelandic Prevention Model to diverse cultural contexts, emphasizes that the program’s primary goal is to empower communities to implement interventions, activities, and actions that prevent addiction and substance use. “By changing the social environment, we aim to increase youth wellbeing and make […] The post Govt adopts Icelandic model to curb alcohol, drug abuse first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
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@kfm Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:24:58
Besigye, co-accused remanded
Veteran opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye and co-accused Hajji Obedi Rutale, 65, were arraigned before the General Court Martial in Makindye, Kampala, on November 20, 2024. They face four counts of security-related offenses and unlawful possession of firearms, allegedly committed while at Riverside Apartments in Nairobi, Kenya. Both accused persons pleaded not guilty to all charges. The court, however, remanded them until December 2, 2024. Besigye arrived at the court in a convoy of three Military Police Vehicles. Daily Monitor reported that the former FDC president was reported missing in Nairobi where he had travelled to attend a book launch of former Kenya’s Justice Minister, Martha Karua. Details to follow… The post Besigye, co-accused remanded first appeared on 93.3 KFM.
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@matookerepublic Wed, 20 Nov 2024 08:50:46
Besigye to be arraigned before Army Court Martial after abduction from Kenya
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have announced that Dr. Kizza Besigye, the veteran opposition leader, will be arraigned before the General Court Martial in Makindye this morning. Local media quotes Brigadier Felix Kulaigye, the UPDF spokesperson, as saying, “Go to Makindye Court Martial today at 11 am; you will find the answer you need.” […] The post Besigye to be arraigned before Army Court Martial after abduction from Kenya first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@matookerepublic Wed, 20 Nov 2024 11:32:11
Three arrested for producing fake National IDs and Passports
Police in Kampala have conducted a raid and arrested three suspects—Bagonza Eric, 28, Kati Ronald, 36, and Mwoko Parnento, 24—for allegedly forging security documents. The arrests were made near Ben Kiwanuka Street at the former Shoprite building. The suspects, posing as Airtel agents, are alleged to have been illegally printing and producing security documents, including […] The post Three arrested for producing fake National IDs and Passports first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@observer Wed, 20 Nov 2024 08:08:54
Youth take party leadership to court
A ruling party youth section, calling itself the Revivalist Movement of NRM, has sued members of the party leadership in court over alleged deliberate negligence and subversion of natural and democratic principles. At a media briefing at National theatre on November 19, 2024, Isaac Akampurira Rukanda, their team leader and chief commissar, said they filed a case in the High court on October 31, 2024 against the NRM party, the NRM secretary general and the chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission for failure to hold internal elections since 2016. Keith Namara, Rukanda’s lawyer from Matrix Advocates, said the civil case is Miscellaneous Cause No. 0230 of 2024, and now pending for being fixed for hearing. Rukanda accused the party leadership for failing to listen to repeated calls done through internal mechanisms. He said Covid-19 can no longer be a sufficient excuse, especially knowing that money for internal elections is available. He disputed claims that the party’s Central Executive Committee (CEC) has powers to indefinitely postpone elections; the CEC can only legally extend the term of offices by only six months. Sam Mucunguzi, the spokesperson, said NRM has failed to issue membership cards since 2015, leaving members without formal identification. He added that the party’s register is nonfunctional, and the secretariat has failed its mandate of maintaining and updating it. {loadposition inarticle}
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@allafrica Wed, 20 Nov 2024 07:54:08
FDC Katonga 36 Demand Justice After Torture Ordeal
[Nile Post] Thirty-six members of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Katonga faction, recently arrested in Kisumu, Kenya, and charged with terrorism, have recounted harrowing experiences of torture and inhumane treatment during their arrest and detention.
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@matookerepublic Wed, 20 Nov 2024 07:15:16
Equity Bank leads the charge in Kinshasa as DRC emerges as key investment hub for Africa
Kinshasa, the vibrant capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has emerged as a top investment destination, with its strategic location and booming population of over 20 million making it a prime market for diverse industries. Situated in the heart of the DRC, the city stands as a beacon for manufacturing, logistics, food supply, […] The post Equity Bank leads the charge in Kinshasa as DRC emerges as key investment hub for Africa first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@matookerepublic Wed, 20 Nov 2024 07:29:07
Tusker Malt Conversessions Season Three Returns: A Celebration of Ugandan Music and Craftsmanship
The highly anticipated Tusker Malt Conversessions is back for its third season, with the first episode set to air on December 1, 2024. The digital music series promises to be bigger and better than ever and will be running over six months until May 2025. The creative acoustic music series will once again be treating […] The post Tusker Malt Conversessions Season Three Returns: A Celebration of Ugandan Music and Craftsmanship first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@matookerepublic Wed, 20 Nov 2024 06:00:00
Uganda’s film industry gears up for glamour as Ikon Awards return for third edition
The stage is set for the grand return of the Ikon Film and Television Awards, with the third edition officially launched on Sunday in a dazzling event at the Kampala Serena Hotel. Organized by the Ikon Inspire Foundation, Reach A Hand Uganda, and Sauti Plus Media Hub, the awards are Uganda’s premier platform for celebrating […] The post Uganda’s film industry gears up for glamour as Ikon Awards return for third edition first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@matookerepublic Wed, 20 Nov 2024 06:31:10
50-year-old father drags 30-year-old son to police for sleeping with his 24-year-old wife; Son claims it was revenge for father’s affair with his girlfriend
A bizarre family feud has left residents of Gombe in Nansana Municipality stunned after a father dragged his own son to local council (LC) authorities for sleeping with his wife. David Ssekabira, 50, accuses his son, Shafik Walusimbi, 30, of forcefully sleeping with his stepmother, Christine Ndagire, 24. Speaking before the LC, Ndagire revealed her […] The post 50-year-old father drags 30-year-old son to police for sleeping with his 24-year-old wife; Son claims it was revenge for father’s affair with his girlfriend first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@allafrica Wed, 20 Nov 2024 05:10:47
Court Martial Hands Sentences Four to Six Years for Unlawful Possession of Ammunition
[Nile Post] Keffa Kiwanuka, Jonathan Magoma Waswa, Moses Nyombi, and Saulo Ssekandi were convicted under the Firearms Act Cap 229 and the UPDF Act, 2005.
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@matookerepublic Wed, 20 Nov 2024 05:31:58
Winnie Byanyima shares account of husband Besigye’s disappearance in Nairobi, claims he’s being held in a military detention facility in Kampala
Veteran Ugandan politician and four-time presidential candidate, Dr. Kizza Besigye, has been reported missing, sparking growing concern. According to reports, Besigye was last seen three days ago, preparing to travel to Kenya in the company of another individual. Since then, neither Besigye nor his companion has been reachable, raising fears for their safety. Winnie Byanyima, […] The post Winnie Byanyima shares account of husband Besigye’s disappearance in Nairobi, claims he’s being held in a military detention facility in Kampala first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@matookerepublic Wed, 20 Nov 2024 05:39:44
Uganda Marketing Excellence Awards receives highest number of entries, from top corporate brands and agencies for 2024 edition
Uganda Marketing Excellence Awards (UMEAS) have announced reception of the highest number of entries from top corporate brands and agencies, for the 2024 edition. The UMEAS fourth awards gala is slated for Friday 13th December 2024, at the Kampala Serena Hotel, and shall run under the theme ‘Promoting Marketing Sustainability.’ According to Shafique Ssemakula, the […] The post Uganda Marketing Excellence Awards receives highest number of entries, from top corporate brands and agencies for 2024 edition first appeared on Matooke Republic.
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@observer Wed, 20 Nov 2024 04:57:07
Wanted South Sudanese fugitive in $7m fraud living large in Kampala
Interpol is investigating how Augustino Taban Idro Kuei, a South Sudanese national wanted for his role in a $7 million fraud, managed to escape jail in both Dubai and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo) before settling into a luxurious lifestyle in Kampala, Uganda. Kuei is accused of forging signatures to fraudulently withdraw over $7 million from the account of his employer, the Ropani Group of Companies. Sources within Uganda’s directorate of Interpol told The Observer that Kuei, who holds South Sudanese, Ugandan and DR Congolese nationalities, is on an Interpol red notice. Despite this, he is reportedly shielded by “powerful, well-connected individuals” within Uganda. WHAT IS AN INTERPOL RED NOTICE? An Interpol red notice serves as a global alert to law enforcement agencies, requesting the location and provisional arrest of a suspect pending extradition or legal action. In Uganda, the Interpol directorate facilitates international cooperation to combat transnational crime. ARREST ATTEMPTS THWARTED The source revealed that an arrest warrant for Kuei has been in place since 2021, but efforts to apprehend and extradite him to South Sudan have been blocked by influential figures in the Ugandan government. Documents seen by The Observer indicate that the South Sudanese government has repeatedly written to the Ugandan and DR Congolese governments requesting their cooperation in arresting Kuei, but no progress has been made. Kuei’s alleged fraudulent activities date back to his tenure at Ropani Group of Companies, where he worked under Samuel Lotigo, a South Sudanese national. Between 2015 and 2020, Kuei allegedly colluded with bank officials to siphon over $7.7 million from the company account. After the fraud was uncovered, Kuei fled to Dubai, where he was briefly arrested, only to escape custody and later surface in DR Congo. LAVISH LIFESTYLE IN KAMPALA Despite his fugitive status, Kuei is reportedly living a high-profile lifestyle in Kampala. Interpol continues to probe how he managed to evade justice in multiple countries and avoid extradition. His case highlights challenges in addressing transnational crime, particularly when suspects receive protection from influential networks. This high-profile investigation raises serious questions about the effectiveness of international cooperation in tackling financial crimes and the role of domestic authorities in protecting fugitives. FUGITIVE’S ESCAPE FROM JUSTICE SPARKS INTERNATIONAL TENSIONS Records reveal that when Samuel Lotigo, a South Sudanese businessman, discovered the $7.7 million fraud allegedly orchestrated by his employee, Augustino Taban Idro Kuei, he alerted South Sudan police. However, Kuei managed to evade capture and fled to Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). In 2021, after the South Sudan government issued an Interpol red notice for Kuei, he was arrested in Dubai and detained for three months while awaiting extradition. During this time, a high-ranking Ugandan official reportedly travelled to South Sudan to lobby for leniency on Kuei’s behalf but failed to convince South Sudanese authorities. A PATTERN OF INFLUENCE According to sources within Interpol, the same Ugandan official allegedly leveraged their influence to secure Kuei’s release from detention in Dubai, facilitating his return to Kampala. Later that year, when Kuei travelled to DR Congo for business, he was arrested by Congolese authorities. Once again, the official reportedly intervened, ensuring Kuei’s release and safe return to Uganda. These repeated maneuvers reportedly angered the South Sudan government, which appealed to both Uganda and DR Congo to arrest and extradite Kuei. Letters from South Sudan’s directorate of Public Prosecution outlined the allegations against Kuei under sections 346 and 341 of the South Sudan Penal Code Act, 2008. They detailed how he misappropriated $7.7 million from the company he worked for before fleeing. SOUTH SUDAN’S PLEA FOR JUSTICE One letter from South Sudan’s inspector general of police to counterparts in Uganda and DR Congo reads: “We are requesting your authorities to kindly arrest the above suspect wanted by the judicial authority of South Sudan. Kuei is wanted by South Sudan National Police Service for criminal misappropriation amounting to $7,721,150. The ministry kindly requests your esteemed embassy to facilitate with the relevant authorities in DR Congo the extradition of the suspect to South Sudan.” QUESTIONS OF CORRUPTION AND PROTECTION Kuei’s ability to evade justice in both Dubai and DR Congo, as well as his current safety in Kampala, raises significant questions. Sources allege that powerful individuals within the Ugandan government are protecting Kuei and may have benefitted from his fraudulent activities. These claims have further strained relations between South Sudan and Uganda. SILENCE FROM THE VICTIM Efforts to contact Lotigo, the whistleblower and victim of the alleged fraud, were unsuccessful as he did not respond to repeated calls.The case highlights the challenges of addressing transnational crime, especially when suspects are shielded by influential networks. The involvement of high-ranking officials in obstructing justice underscores the need for greater transparency and accountability in handling international warrants and extradition cases. {loadposition inarticle}
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@observer Wed, 20 Nov 2024 05:14:29
Government rejects LoP Ssenyonyi removal bill
The ruling NRM government has surprisingly rejected a private member’s bill introduced by Mityana South MP Richard Lumu, which proposed reforms to how the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) is elected. The Administration of Parliament (Amendment) Bill, 2024, sought to have opposition members of parliament elect the LoP, specifically from the opposition party with the greatest numerical strength in Parliament. Lumu’s bill also proposed grounds for removing the LoP from office, requiring the shadow cabinet to be approved by opposition MPs, and mandating consultations with all opposition parties in parliament when appointing parliamentary standing committee leaders. THE CASE FOR REFORM Speaking during the Gulu regional parliamentary sitting in August 2024, Lumu argued that the current system suppresses minority voices within the opposition. Highlighting the diversity of political parties in parliament— including the Democratic Party, Forum for Democratic Change, Uganda People’s Congress, Justice Forum, and the People’s Progressive Party—he said the existing approach limits full representation of all opposition groups. Lumu questioned why positions such as the pope, the Ugandan President, and the speaker of Parliament are elected through democratic processes, while the leader of the opposition and chief opposition whip are exempt from similar principles. GOVERNMENT’S RESPONSE The Ministry of Finance and Deputy Attorney General Jackson Karugaba Kafuuzi rejected key elements of the bill. The Ministry argued that increasing the number of Parliamentary Commissioners would burden the Consolidated Fund. The government also declined the proposal to add a seat for smaller opposition parties on the commission, stating it would distort the principle of numerical strength, which grants the largest party in Parliament more representation. “Adding a second opposition member to the four commissioners out of the total nine would undermine the principle of numerical strength, which prioritizes representation for the largest party or the government. Additionally, the proposed amendment would place an extra burden on the Consolidated Fund,” Kafuuzi explained. The government has also dismissed MP Richard Lumu’s proposal to introduce elections for the leader of the opposition, stating that the matter falls under policy considerations rather than legislative action. Additionally, the government recommended amending the Administration of Parliament Act to mandate the attendance of either the minister of Finance or the prime minister at Parliamentary Commission meetings when significant decisions are under discussion. Kafuuzi also dismissed the proposal to allow opposition MPs to remove the LoP by resolution, stating it would undermine the mandate of the opposition party with the greatest numerical strength—a mandate given by voters. “The process of removal by resolution of opposition parties in parliament contradicts the will of the people, who exercise their power through regular, free, and fair elections. The leader of the opposition is appointed through election and should not be removed by a resolution of parliament,” he explained. OPPOSITION VIEWS Current Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi expressed opposition to the bill, describing it as a targeted move rather than a genuine effort to strengthen democracy. “It’s not just me; every stakeholder who has appeared before the committee has raised concerns about the bill. If the aim was to enhance democracy by electing both the Leader of the Opposition and the Leader of Government Business, I’d support it. However, if you’re only focusing on the opposition leader, it becomes clear this is about targeting an individual rather than strengthening democratic processes,” Ssenyonyi said. He added, “The rules specify that the leader of the opposition shall be elected from the party with the majority of opposition members. I was indeed elected by my party’s National Executive Committee, which also elected Hon. Mathias Mpuuga (former LoP). When the rules say ‘elected by the party,’ it doesn’t mean calling all members nationwide; it means using the party’s top governing body.” MOVING FORWARD The bill remains contentious, with debates highlighting the tension between reforming parliamentary processes and preserving established political norms. For now, the government’s rejection reflects its stance on maintaining the status quo regarding the appointment of the Leader of the Opposition. geofreyserugo1992@gmail.com {loadposition inarticle}
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@observer Wed, 20 Nov 2024 05:22:55
Land grabbers evict 360,000 Ugandans in 2024
A staggering 363,021 Ugandans were displaced due to forced land evictions between January and June 2024, according to a new report by Witness Radio Uganda. The report documented 90 cases of land evictions during this period, with nearly four incidents occurring weekly, affecting over 15,126 people and threatening 5,060 hectares of land nationwide. The Central region was the epicenter, recording 52 eviction cases, followed by 24 in the Western region, eight in the Northern region, and six in the Eastern region. Alarmingly, the report estimated that 2,160 Ugandans face eviction daily, with 723 hectares of land at risk of being grabbed every day. VIOLENCE AND HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS Despite government promises and directives from President Museveni to halt evictions, land grabbers have routinely ignored these orders, often resorting to violence. Armed security forces, private militias, and police were reported to have carried out the majority of the evictions. Of the reported cases, 37 were enforced by armed gangs on behalf of evictors, 25 involved Uganda Police, five were carried out with the participation of UPDF soldiers, and four were linked to private security companies. “The egregious levels of impunity exhibited by land grabbers have left communities defenseless, creating an environment where their human rights are trampled without consequence,” said Jeff Wokulira Ssebaggala, country director of Witness Radio Uganda. He called for accountability and justice, warning that the unchecked power of influential individuals and entities leaves marginalized communities vulnerable and without recourse. DRIVERS OF EVICTIONS: INDUSTRIALIZATION AND LAND-BASED INVESTMENTS The report identified the government’s push for industrialization and land-based investments as the primary drivers of forced evictions. Land is increasingly targeted for oil and gas extraction, mining, agribusiness and tree plantations for carbon offsets. While some of this land is already under development, other parcels remain vacant but are guarded by military personnel and private security firms. Ssebaggala emphasized that industrialization must balance economic development with the protection of smallholder farmers’ rights to land and food security. TRAGIC STORIES The report highlighted harrowing cases that underscore the human toll of forced evictions. In Nakasongola, smallholder farmer Dan Ssebyala was ambushed and killed by armed men following a confrontation over disputed land. The district has become a hotspot for violent evictions involving absentee landlords and powerful investors. Ismael Bwowe, a disabled father of 20, recounted how his land was confiscated after he demanded fair compensation. He faced intimidation, arrests and false charges from state authorities, including being accused of robbing an influential individual. Bwowe claimed that Total Energies offered legal support and representation on the condition that he accept their compensation terms. “I refused,” he said, adding that the pressure to relinquish his land remains intense. The report underscores the urgent need for reforms to address forced evictions, ensure accountability, and protect the rights of vulnerable communities. Without meaningful intervention, Uganda risks deepening inequality and undermining the livelihoods of smallholder farmers who are essential to the country’s food security. FAMILY JAILED AMID LAND DISPUTE The plight of Richard Ssebagala, his wife Prossy Namande, and their relative Anania Ngabirano, residents of Kabubu-Kabongo village in Nansana Municipality, Wakiso district, highlights the human toll of Uganda’s ongoing land disputes. The family spent nine months in prison following their arrest on January 10, 2024, under controversial circumstances. ARREST AND ALLEGATIONS The arrests occurred at 1am, during a raid by officers from Luweero police station. Police reportedly banged on the doors and forcefully detained the family, accusing them of aggravated robbery. However, the family believes the arrest was a tactic linked to a land dispute with Benon Ntambi, a man who allegedly grabbed their land. Before the arrests, Ntambi had reportedly destroyed crops, including tomatoes, potatoes, and bananas, on the contested land. While the family was incarcerated, a new building was constructed on their land, which is now occupied, raising further questions about the motivations behind their detention. CALLS FOR JUSTICE The case has drawn attention from Witness Radio Uganda, which has urged the government to take immediate action to address land grabbing and illegal evictions. The organization emphasized the need to strengthen land laws and protect vulnerable communities from abuses. It also called for greater accountability in institutions such as the Uganda Police Force, the army and land registries, which are often accused of corruption and favoritism toward the wealthy. “The government must prioritize justice for victims of illegal evictions and address systemic corruption that leaves the poor defenseless against land grabbers,” Witness Radio Uganda stated. BROADER CONTEXT This case underscores the broader issue of land conflicts in Uganda, where vulnerable families are often caught in disputes with powerful individuals or entities. Advocacy groups warn that the failure to address these issues not only erodes public trust but also perpetuates inequality and injustice. As the government faces mounting pressure to act, the story of Ssebagala and his family serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for reforms to protect land rights and ensure justice for those impacted by land disputes. {loadposition inarticle}
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@observer Wed, 20 Nov 2024 04:48:47
Judge orders: Prosecution must share evidence with defence in Katanga trial
The ongoing criminal trial regarding the death of Henry Katanga revolves around critical evidence that paints a complex narrative of the events leading to his demise. A black Zastava pistol, serial number UG1622200061CZ99 compact, identified as the murder weapon, has been at the center of investigations. Forensic evidence confirmed that the firearm belonged to the deceased, raising key questions about access to and handling of the weapon within the household. TIMELINE AND MEDICAL EVIDENCE On November 2, 2023, the day of the incident, Molly Katanga, wife to the deceased, was admitted to International Hospital Kampala (IHK) under dire medical conditions. The hospital report detailed multiple fractures in her upper limbs, significant head injuries, and hypovolemic shock—a condition indicative of severe blood loss. These injuries suggest that Molly may have been involved in a violent confrontation preceding the fatal gunshot, a detail central to the defense’s argument framing her as a victim of domestic violence. WITNESS ACCOUNTS AND SCENE ANALYSIS Testimonies from household staff add further layers to the case. Workers at the Katanga residence reported hearing a heated scuffle in the master bedroom shortly before a gunshot rang out. The sequence of events underscores the likelihood of a physical altercation preceding the shooting. The workers’ immediate response was to contact Katangas’ daughters, who arrived to discover their father’s lifeless body and their mother in visible distress. The daughters’ actions, particularly the one of transporting Molly to the hospital, demonstrate a focus on emergency medical care amidst the unfolding tragedy. However, their role in the aftermath of the incident— especially concerning potential evidence at the crime scene—has been scrutinized, forming part of the charges against them. BROADER IMPLICATIONS The evidence presented so far highlights critical areas of contention: the origin and ownership of the weapon, the circumstances of the alleged altercation, and the actions taken by those present during and after the incident. The medical report on Molly raises significant questions about whether her injuries were defensive or the result of an altercation that escalated fatally. Additionally, the household staff’s testimony, combined with forensic findings, provides a foundational timeline but leaves room for interpretation and cross-examination. As the trial progresses, these elements will remain pivotal in shaping the court’s understanding of whether the events of that night constituted premeditated murder, a tragic escalation of domestic violence, or a combination of both. The prosecution’s burden of proving guilt beyond reasonable doubt will hinge on tying these fragments into a cohesive narrative that withstands the defense’s challenges. Conversely, the defense must leverage these ambiguities to establish reasonable doubt, particularly regarding Molly’s role and intent in the incident. COURTROOM DYNAMICS In Justice Isaac Muwata’s courtroom, the case has drawn significant attention, with a robust legal team on both sides. Representing the prosecution are Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Samali Wakooli, Counsel Anna Kizza, and Chief State Attorneys Jonathan Muwaganya. The defense team comprises Senior Counsel Peter Kabatsi, Counsel Ellison Karuhanga, Counsel Macdosman Kabega, and Counsel John Jet Tumwebaze. Renowned lawyer Mwesigwa Rukutana holds a watching brief on behalf of the deceased’s family, adding a notable presence to the proceedings. During last Tuesday’s session, Molly Katanga appeared on-screen, clad in a white head wrap and dress. Meanwhile, the four co-accused stood in the dock as the legal teams engaged in arguments at the bar. RULING ON OBJECTION Justice Muwata began the session by delivering his ruling on an objection raised by the defense regarding the admissibility of the prosecution’s 10th witness and their evidence. This decision follows extensive arguments presented in the previous trial session, which had challenged the inclusion of critical forensic testimony. The court remains focused on unravelling the circumstances surrounding Henry Katanga’s death, with tensions high as legal strategies unfold in this high-profile trial. RULING ON OBJECTION TO EVIDENCE AND DISCLOSURE Muwata delivered his ruling on objections raised by the defense regarding the admissibility of evidence provided by Prosecution Witness 10 (PW10) and issues related to disclosure of evidence. ADMISSIBILITY OF PW10’S EVIDENCE The court noted the defense’s argument that the evidence of PW10 does not comply with legal requirements and that insufficient disclosure has been a recurring issue during the trial. Justice Muwata reserved his ruling on the admissibility of PW10’s evidence, stating: “The admissibility or otherwise of that evidence shall be considered during the final analysis of all the evidence in this matter. For that reason, the evidence of PW10 shall be taken on record, pending the court’s final decision.” DISCLOSURE OBLIGATIONS On the matter of disclosure, Justice Muwata emphasized its critical importance, highlighting that a fair trial is a cardinal principle of the law. Citing Article 28 of Uganda’s Constitution and relevant case law, the judge underscored the prosecution’s duty to fully disclose evidence. Quoting The Republic vs. Woody (1993) and other authorities, the court noted: “The prosecution, at common law, must disclose to the defense all relevant material—evidence that either weakens the prosecution’s case or strengthens the defense. This includes making available reports of all relevant experiments and tests carried out by expert witnesses. Such disclosure is an ongoing obligation throughout the pre-trial period and during the trial.” Justice Muwata further directed the prosecution to disclose raw data and video evidence to the defense, stating:“The prosecution has a duty to disclose relevant scientific materials, regardless of their opinion to the contrary. I so order that the same be done.” With these directions, the judge called for proceedings to continue, ensuring that all parties adhere to the principles of fair trial and disclosure. Both the prosecution and defense teams stood and bowed, following courtroom protocol. PROCEEDINGS ON RAW DATA EXTRACTION AND RELATED MATTERS Kabatsi: “My lord, I wish to add that we shall await the supply of the video.”Muwaganya: “My lord, we have conferred with the expert.” (pauses to consult with his team, who step away from the bar to confer with the witness; the group whispers among themselves for some time) “My lord, the expert estimates that extracting the raw data from the gadgets will take approximately six hours. We anticipate being able to provide the raw data by the close of today, allowing proceedings to continue tomorrow. However, my lord, the storage required for the extracted data is approximately 2TB. To ensure smooth proceedings, we request the defense to provide a storage device capable of accommodating 4TB by the end of the day.” Kabatsi: “My lord, we assume the order includes telephones, the DVR, and all relevant gadgets.”Judge: “What is raw data?”Kabatsi: “Raw data refers to the information extracted from the gadgets. However, I am uncertain if all of it will be downloaded.”Judge: “I believe you should work together on this matter. If the devices are removed entirely, what will the prosecution use to present their case?” Witness: “If I may clarify what raw data entails, my lord—”(The lawyers collectively turn to the witness, signaling disapproval.)Judge: (addressing the witness)“Go ahead.”Kabatsi: (interrupts)“My lord, seeing as it is already 11am, we shall need at least a day to review the data once provided.”Judge: “Very well. Tomorrow is Wednesday; we shall reconvene on Thursday.” Muwaganya: “My lord, we are here to comply with every court order. However, I must emphasize the need for fairness, as we are also weary of moving in circles. If I understood senior counsel correctly, the demand now appears to include access to physical evidence before it is presented to court.” Judge: “The ruling stands—it only pertains to the raw data.”Jet: “My lord, we request that the witness also brings all qualifications and certificates previously referenced for purposes of clarity.” CASE BACKGROUND For the past three months, the criminal court presided over by Justice Isaac Muwata has been hearing the case in which the prosecution has charged Molly Katanga (wife of the deceased) with the murder of Henry Katanga. Additionally, Patricia Kakwanzi and Martha Nkwanzi (the couple’s daughters), along with George Amanyire and Charles Otai (two household workers), have been charged as accessories to the crime. The prosecution has presented 10 witnesses, all of whom have undergone cross-examination by the defense and prosecution teams, as they aim to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt. KEY EVIDENCE PRESENTED The key evidence presented in the trial includes testimony from a pathologist who confirmed that Henry Katanga died from a gunshot wound. The bullet entered the left side of his head, slightly above the ear, and exited through the right ear. A forensic expert revealed that Molly Katanga’s DNA was the major contributor found on the murder weapon, specifically on the trigger housing, which was tested as a single unit with the trigger. Notably, no DNA traces were discovered on the gun grip. Police investigations further established signs of a struggle in the master bedroom, with blood found on the walls, door frames, and ceiling, corroborating evidence of a scuffle before the fatal shot. Additionally, the deceased’s sister testified that Henry Katanga had expressed concerns about his wife in the days leading to his death. She revealed that he was in the process of drafting his will the week before his demise. The charges against the accused are as follows. Molly Katanga is charged with murder. The prosecution alleges that Molly was involved in a physical altercation with her husband shortly before his death, with her DNA found as the major contributor on the murder weapon. Testimony from a witness further indicated that the deceased had voiced fears regarding her behavior prior to the incident. The prosecution argues that Molly acted with malice aforethought in the killing of her husband. Patricia Kakwanzi and Martha Nkwanzi are charged with destroying evidence, an offense punishable by up to seven years in prison. The prosecution contends that the daughters removed and destroyed items from the crime scene, which were crucial to the investigation, rendering them unusable as evidence. George Amanyire and Charles Otai face charges of being accessories to murder, an offense punishable by up to three years in prison. The prosecution asserts that George Amanyire was caught mopping up blood at the crime scene, an act aimed at hindering the investigation. Charles Otai, a home nurse who appeared at the residence shortly after the shooting, is accused of knowingly assisting others who had committed an offense. The trial continues as the court seeks to establish the guilt or innocence of the accused. LEGAL PRESUMPTION Under the law, the accused persons remain innocent until proven guilty beyond reasonable doubt. The prosecution must meet this burden to secure convictions on all charges. DEFENCE CHALLENGES In the ongoing trial, the defense sought to establish reasonable doubt by portraying Molly Katanga as a victim of domestic violence rather than a perpetrator. They argued that her numerous injuries, documented in the medical report, were consistent with being brutally beaten by her husband on the night in question. The defense also cast doubt on the credibility and qualifications of several expert witnesses called by the prosecution. They questioned the reliability of evidence provided by the pathologist, the first responder at the crime scene, the forensic expert, and the IT specialist, asserting that discrepancies in their reports undermined the prosecution’s case. A key argument by the defense challenged the forensic expert’s claim that Molly Katanga was the major DNA contributor to the murder weapon. They contended it was implausible for Molly’s DNA to be the primary contributor on the projectile that passed through the deceased’s head. To illustrate their point, the defense demonstrated in court how holding the gun by the tips of the fingers could have transferred DNA to the trigger and trigger housing, without implicating Molly as the shooter. Proceedings were set to resume on Thurs- day, November 14, but were unexpectedly adjourned to the following Tuesday. Court officials informed attendees of the delay after security checks and initial preparations had been completed. {loadposition inarticle}
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