Defence Forensic Witness Faces Scrutiny in Katanga Murder Trial

The murder trial of businesswoman Molly Katanga became a stage for intense legal debate as a key defence witness encountered significant challenges during cross-examination. Dr. Sylvester Onzivua, a retired forensic pathologist, took the stand to present his findings and critique the postmortem report concerning the death of businessman Henry Katanga.

During his testimony, Dr. Onzivua, who boasts over two decades of experience and specialized training in forensic medicine, expressed concerns about the current state of forensic pathology in Uganda. He suggested that junior pathologists were producing “dangerous reports” and questioned the qualifications of the experts who handled the initial postmortem in the Katanga case.

However, the prosecution, led by Chief State Attorney Jonathan Muwaganya, quickly began to probe the witness’s preparedness. Dr. Onzivua was pressed to identify the specific literature supporting his opinions on intimate violence and forensic analysis. He admitted to relying on “general information” but was unable to provide titles or source materials readily, promising to furnish them later.

Further questioning revealed that Dr. Onzivua had not brought an instruction letter from the law firm representing Molly Katanga, despite anticipating a demanding cross-examination. He also disclosed that he had issued three separate opinions in the case, including revisions made after the court had already determined that Molly Katanga had a case to answer, stating he had “self-instructed” himself for these revisions.

The prosecution also delved into the witness’s professional arrangements, including his role as a voluntary, unpaid teacher at Makerere University and meetings with defence lawyers, establishing he had consulted with one lawyer more than ten times.

Justice Comfort Kania adjourned the proceedings to the following day to allow for the continuation of Dr. Onzivua’s cross-examination.

Henry Katanga was found deceased at his home on November 2, 2023. His wife, Molly, faces murder charges, while their daughters and two other individuals are charged with related offenses. Most co-accused are currently on bail.

This article is based on information from the Daily Monitor.