COURT RULING: Judge Celia Nagawa’s ruling in the divorce case between Ugandan radio boss Brian Mochorwa Mariaria and his ex-wife Fortunate Komugisha, citing irreconcilable differences due to domestic violence, infidelity, and allegations of witchcraft.
KAMPALA, UGANDA – The Family Division of the High Court has dissolved the marriage of Brian Mochorwa Mariaria, a prominent radio boss, and his wife Fortunate Komugisha, citing irreconcilable differences.
In a ruling delivered on September 1, 2024, Judge Celia Nagawa granted Mochorwa’s petition for divorce, citing a history of domestic violence, infidelity, and allegations of witchcraft. Judge Nagawa stated, “Therefore, I will not hesitate to release whoever wants to leave for a justified cause than to keep a shell house. In the instant case, the Petitioner testified that during the subsistence of the marriage, it was marred with domestic violence, cruelty, and he lived on the edge.”
Mochorwa, who owns Radio One and Akaboozi ku biiri, testified that his wife had deserted their matrimonial home without reasonable excuse, engaging in affairs with other men, including a top UPDF officer. He also alleged that Komugisha had performed witchcraft ceremonies in their home, targeting him. Mochorwa stated, “During our honeymoon, she fumed, abused me, and became violent… She even vowed to steal a gun from the UPDF officer friend to kill me, and on several occasions, she threatened to poison me, that’s why I stopped eating any food prepared at home.”
The court heard that Komugisha had neglected their 11-year-old son, leaving him in the care of her cousin brother. Mochorwa was granted custody of the child, with Komugisha allowed to visit once a month until he turns 18.
Despite being served with court documents, Komugisha failed to file a defense, leading the judge to base her ruling on Mochorwa’s evidence.
Judge Nagawa acknowledged the complexities of divorce proceedings, stating, “In divorce proceedings, court deals with people who are often feeling chaotic emotions and powerful passions… If there is to be divorce, the law should not exacerbate the bitterness between the parties.”
