Former State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Agnes Nandutu, has been sentenced to four years in prison after being convicted over the diversion of iron sheets meant for vulnerable communities in the Karamoja sub-region.
The sentence was handed down by the Anti-Corruption Court, which also barred Nandutu from holding public office for a period of 10 years.
Court heard that Nandutu unlawfully diverted 2,000 iron sheets that had been procured by the government to support disadvantaged households in Karamoja. The iron sheets were part of a relief program aimed at improving shelter conditions in the region, which has long struggled with poverty and harsh climatic conditions.
Prosecution argued that the former minister abused her office by taking possession of the materials for personal use, denying intended beneficiaries access to the support.
In its judgment, the Anti-Corruption Court emphasized the need for accountability among public officials, especially those entrusted with resources meant for vulnerable citizens. The court noted that Nandutu’s actions amounted to a serious breach of public trust.
Alongside the four-year custodial sentence, the 10-year ban from public office effectively sidelines Nandutu from political life for the foreseeable future.
The case is part of a broader investigation into the mismanagement of iron sheets distributed under the Office of the Prime Minister. Several other officials have previously been implicated in the scandal, which sparked public outrage across the country.
The ruling is being seen as a significant step in Uganda’s efforts to combat corruption and enforce accountability in government programs.
Many Ugandans and anti-corruption advocates have welcomed the judgment, saying it sends a strong message that misuse of public resources will not go unpunished.
Observers believe the conviction could pave the way for further prosecutions as investigations into the scandal continue.
The jailing of Agnes Nandutu marks a major development in one of Uganda’s most high-profile corruption cases in recent years, reinforcing calls for transparency and integrity in public service.
