Molly Katanga Testifies: Husband Had Mental Breakdown Before Shooting Himself

Molly Katanga, 57-year-old businesswoman and widow of Henry Katanga, appeared physically in Kampala’s High Court before Judge Rosette Comfort Kania for her defence. This marked her first in-person court appearance in over a year due to health issues; previously, she joined via video from Luzira Prison.

Aided by prison wardens and seated in an adjustable chair, Molly testified under oath. Married to Henry for 32 years, they had four children: Kakwanza Patricia, Arthur, Siima, and Martha. She denied murdering her businessman husband, stating she has no knowledge of firearms.

Molly described their marriage as normal but noted Henry’s stress two months before his death on November 2, 2023. His money-lending business suffered as clients failed to repay, including Shs1.5 billion owed by Apollo Nyegamehe, who died in a motor accident three months prior. Henry often shared his frustrations, calling it a major loss.

On November 1, Molly recounted her routine evening: work, a walk in Mbuya, helping Siima with homework, and dinner. Henry returned around 7:30-8pm, complaining about clients and planning to quit lending after a Shs200m deal soured.

The next morning, after praying, Henry allegedly attacked her in their self-contained master bedroom bathroom while she brushed her teeth. He beat her with a baton, slamming her against the door handle, causing head injuries. She screamed for help but weakened. He called her name three times, then said, ‘I am going to kill myself,’ followed by a loud bang.

Believing he shot himself with his gun, Molly crawled out naked and bloodied to another room for water. Staff, including shamba boy George and daughter Martha, helped dress her and rushed her to Bugolobi Medical Centre, then International Hospital Kampala (IHK). She underwent surgery, lost a finger, developed breast lumps, dizziness, back pain, and mobility issues.

Molly believes Henry suffered a mental breakdown, rejecting painkillers two weeks earlier and ignoring Dr. Karuhanga’s prescription for stress. She refuted prosecution claims of refusing police statements, phone use with bandaged hands, or tracking Henry.

Her lawyer, Peter Kabatsi, ended examination-in-chief. Prosecution, led by Samali Wakooli, deferred cross-examination to April 2 due to late disclosure.

Source: Daily Monitor