Forensic Witness Faces Scrutiny in Katanga Murder Trial

The High Court in Kampala witnessed a tense session on Thursday as Dr. Sylvester Onzivua, a retired forensic pathologist and defense witness, was cross-examined in the murder trial of businesswoman Molly Katanga.

Dr. Onzivua, who headed the City Mortuary between 2005 and 2013, presented himself as an expert with over two decades of experience. He testified that he specialized in forensic medicine in South Africa and criticized the current state of forensic pathology in Uganda, suggesting that junior pathologists are producing “dangerous reports.”

However, the prosecution, led by Chief State Attorney Jonathan Muwaganya, raised concerns about the witness’s preparedness and the basis of his opinions. Dr. Onzivua struggled to provide specific literature supporting his views on intimate violence and forensic analysis, admitting he relied on “general information” and could not recall the titles of the texts he used.

Further questioning revealed that Dr. Onzivua had issued multiple conflicting opinions. He also admitted to not carrying an instruction letter from the defense lawyers to court and stated he had not yet been paid for his services, though he expects Shs10 million.

The prosecution also probed his current teaching role at Makerere University, where he claimed to teach pathology for free after retiring from Mulago Hospital. It was also established that Dr. Onzivua had numerous meetings with one of the defense lawyers during his preparation.

Justice Comfort Kania adjourned the proceedings to Friday for the continuation of Dr. Onzivua’s cross-examination. Businessman Henry Katanga was found dead at his home in November 2023, and his wife Molly, along with their daughters and two others, face charges related to his death and the alleged destruction of evidence.