Ms. Naome Nyagweso, the sister of the late Henry Katanga and a key witness for the prosecution, suddenly forgot how to speak English in court, despite having written and signed three statements in English.
Naome Nyagweso’s unexpected language barrier led to an adjournment of the trial until August 20, as the court struggled to find an interpreter fluent in Ruyankole, her native language.
The trial, which resumed on Monday, July 15, 2024, at the High Court in Kampala, has been filled with dramatic moments.
Earlier in the trial, another key witness, Mugabe Ronald Ruranga, a self-proclaimed lawyer and businessman, was exposed as not having a legal practicing certificate, despite having handled important legal documents for the late Henry Katanga.
Ruranga’s credentials were called into question during cross-examination, and he was unable to produce any documents to support his claims of being a licensed lawyer.
The case has taken a complicated turn, with the prosecution’s key witnesses facing credibility issues. The court’s ability to proceed with the trial is now dependent on finding an interpreter who can facilitate communication with Naome Nyagweso.
Molly Katanga is facing trial together with her daughters, Patricia Kakwanza and Martha Nkwanzi, as well as George Amanyire, a domestic worker, and Charles Otai, a nursing officer, who are accused of destroying evidence and being an accessory after the fact to murder.
The case is before Justice Isaac Muwata. Assistant Director of Public Prosecutions Samali Wakooli and Chief State Attorneys Jonathan Muwaganya and Anna Kiiza are prosecuting the matter.
The defense team consists of Peter Kabatsi, MacDosman Kabega, Jet Tumwebaze, Bruce Musinguzi, and Elison Karuhanga. Meanwhile, renowned lawyer Mwesigwa Rukutana is monitoring the proceedings on behalf of the deceased’s family.
