Court hears chilling details of Katanga’s final days

Naome Nyangweso, sister of the late Henry Katanga, took the stand Thursday, October 3, 2024 in the ongoing trial into her brother’s death, providing testimony in her native Runyakole language, which was interpreted by Boas Asiimwe.

Nyangweso, 65, recounted her final interactions with Katanga, describing a meeting at Banana Restaurant where he shared his concerns and fears. She stated that Katanga had been using special hire cars due to safety concerns and had discussed making arrangements for his property.

“He told me he wanted to discuss something important with me, but asked that we meet with a lawyer present,” Nyangweso testified through Asiimwe’s interpretation. “He said he didn’t feel safe and was taking precautions.”

Nyangweso described Katanga’s anxiety and apprehension, painting a picture of a man who felt threatened and vulnerable.

The court heard how Nyangweso received a call from George Amanyire, Katanga’s house helper, informing her of a disturbance at Katanga’s home. Shortly after, she learned of her brother’s tragic demise.

Nyangweso also recounted her painful experience identifying Katanga’s body at the mortuary. “When I saw his face, I knew he was gone,” she said.

The prosecution questioned Nyangweso about Katanga’s final days, his concerns, and their conversations. Nyangweso provided detailed insights into her brother’s state of mind and actions leading up to his death.

The judge adjourned the trial until next Tuesday, with the defense to cross-examine.

Ms. Katanga, along with Charles Tai, George Amanyire, and her two daughters Patricia Kakwanza and Martha Nkwanzi are facing trial for the murder of renowned businessman Katanga. Justice Isaac Muwata presides over the trial at the Criminal Division of the High Court.

The prosecution team, led by Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Samali Wakooli and Chief State Attorney Jonathan Muwaganya have since presented 9 witness. The defense team consists of Peter Kabatsi, MacDosman Kabega, Jet Tumwebaze, Bruce Musinguzi, and Elison Karuhanga.

On November 1, 2023, Henry Katanga and Molly had dinner together before retiring to their bedroom. The following morning, a house help, George Amanyire, heard a strange noise and alerted others in the household.

They suspected a fight and called Nkwanzi and Kakwanza for assistance. Before they arrived, a loud blast was heard, and Katanga was found in a pool of blood.

Katanga was admitted to IHK with multiple fractures, head injuries, and hypovolemic shock. The indictment reveals that Katanga succumbed to gunshot injuries from his own pistol, which was found in good working condition.

Lawyers and other experts have previously urged that Molly is a victim of domestic violence.

The trial proceeds under Justice Isaac Muwata’s guidance.