Why court ordered prosecution to hand in key evidence in Katanga trial
The highly publicized trial of Molly Katanga, accused of murdering her husband Henry Katanga, is set to resume today at the High Court in Kampala.The court ordered the prosecution to hand in key evidence, including DNA analysis reports, ballistic evidence, and CCTV footage, due to concerns over the handling and presentation of exhibits.Justice Isaac Muwata ruled that physical exhibits can only be tendered by the individual who originally recovered them, to maintain a clear and verifiable chain of custody.This decision was made last month after the defense argued that allowing someone other than the original recoverer to tender exhibits could compromise the integrity of the evidence.The defense had complained that partial disclosure of evidence made it difficult for them to prepare an adequate defense.They specifically requested complete disclosure of DNA analysis reports, including Annex II of the DNA Report, which was deemed illegible.They also requested a complete copy of the case file, including all records, bench notes, phone logs, and photographs.Additionally, the defense requested laboratory protocols, work instructions, and disposition of evidence records.They also sought quantification records, electropherograms, software information, STR frequency tables, and data files used in the DNA testing.The court’s ruling was seen as a significant development in the case, as it highlighted the importance of proper handling and presentation of evidence in a criminal trial.The prosecution had previously presented evidence through Andrew Kizimura Mubiru, the acting police director of forensic services, who testified that he conducted DNA examinations of the deceased and matched them with Molly and her two daughters, Patricia Kankwanzi and Martha Nkwanzi.However, the defense argued that Mubiru was not the original recoverer of the evidence and therefore should not have been allowed to present it in court.The court agreed, stating that only the person who recovered the evidence can present it in court, to ensure a clear and unbroken chain of evidence.Molly Katanga, who has consistently maintained her innocence, is accused of shooting her husband on November 3, 2023, at their residence in Mbuya.https://www.ugbulletin.co.ug/why-court-ordered-prosecution-to-hand-in-key-evidence-in-katanga-trial/
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Ugandan Citizen Abducted, Held in Secret Detention for Three Months, Sparks Outrage and Calls for Justice
A disturbing new case of unlawful detention has surfaced, highlighting the ongoing human rights crisis in Uganda. A Ugandan citizen was reportedly abducted and held in a secret facility, known as a “safe house,” for three months, only to be released without charge or explanation. This incident, reported by NTV Uganda, has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed calls for accountability regarding human rights abuses in the country.
While the details surrounding the abduction remain unclear, reports indicate that the individual was taken without due process and held incommunicado—an action that has long been condemned by human rights organizations. The victim’s release, with no charges filed and no clear justification, has angered activists and citizens, who view this as yet another case of egregious abuse of power by the state.
“This is a recurring pattern,” said one human rights activist. “Abductions, secret detentions, and unexplained releases have become all too common in Uganda. These acts violate fundamental human rights and erode public trust in the justice system.”
The use of “safe houses,” unregistered detention facilities reportedly operated by security forces, has been a focal point in numerous allegations of torture and illegal imprisonment. Despite repeated calls from both local and international organizations for their closure and accountability for those involved, little action has been taken to address these violations.
This case underscores the urgent need for reform within Uganda’s security apparatus and greater accountability for human rights abuses. Observers hope that drawing attention to these injustices will spur concrete action to bring those responsible to justice and ensure the protection of basic human rights.
As frustration mounts, calls for both domestic and international pressure to hold the government accountable for such crimes grow louder. “One day, there must be accountability for all these crimes against our people,” stated one social media user, reflecting the sentiments of many Ugandans.
National Unity Platform (NUP) President Robert Kyagulanyi has accused Ugandan security forces of using excessive force to disrupt a planned NUP gathering. The allegations were detailed in a statement shared on Twitter, following an event held to honor children of NUP supporters who were killed, disappeared, or detained for their political beliefs.
According to Kyagulanyi, security personnel, under the command of an officer identified as Asiimwe, carried out a preemptive operation early in the morning upon learning of the NUP’s plans. The forces allegedly stormed the premises, arrested workers, and deployed tear gas to disperse those present.
“The criminals under the command of one Asiimwe deployed early morning, arrested our workers, and threw tear gas into our premises. They’ve cordoned off the premises and blocked all people from accessing the place,” Kyagulanyi wrote.
Among those reportedly arrested were Saava Peter, Mudenya Samson, and Turyasingura Samson. Kyagulanyi claimed the detained workers were subjected to beatings and interrogated about their political affiliations, with security operatives labeling them as terrorists.
“These JATT operatives asked the workers who they support politically, branding them terrorists and criminals—their only crime being that they work with us. You can imagine the indignity!” Kyagulanyi lamented.
This incident adds to the growing tension in Uganda’s political climate, where opposition parties frequently accuse the government of stifling dissent. Despite the challenges, Kyagulanyi ended his statement with a message of defiance and optimism, proclaiming, “UGANDA WILL BE FREE.”
NUP Gathering Disrupted: Kyagulanyi Alleges Security Force Harassment and Arrests
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Sudan Demands Apology from Uganda Over Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Threat to Invade Khartoum
Sudan has demanded an official apology from Uganda over “offensive and dangerous” comments made by the chief of Uganda army staff, who threated to invade Khartoum, the Sudan Tribune has reported.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and CDF of the Ugandan army, posted two comments on the X platform on Tuesday in which he threatened “to capture Khartoum” with the support of the US President elect Donald Trump after he takes office. The posts were deleted later.
“The government of Sudan demands and official apology from the Ugandan government for the offensive and dangerous comments of the army commander,” Sudan’s foreign ministry said in a statement that the Sudan Tribune said it has seen.
Sudan Demands Apology from Uganda Over Army Chief Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Threat to Invade Khartoum