Karamoja iron sheets: Court demands minister Lugoloobi’s explanation
The Anti-Corruption Court has ordered Minister for Economic Monitoring, Amos Lugoloobi, to present his side of the story regarding the Karamoja iron sheets scandal. Lugoloobi is accused of misappropriating iron sheets intended for vulnerable communities in Karamoja.
Justice Jane Kajuugo made the ruling on Wednesday, noting that the prosecution had presented sufficient evidence to support the charges. The court adjourned the case until January 15, 2025, when the State Minister is expected to begin his defense.
The Prosecution alleges that Lugoloobi received 700 iron sheets marked “Office of the Prime Minister,” which were allegedly diverted for personal use. These included roofing a goat house on his farm and donating them to a school in Kayunga District.
Lugoloobi’s lawyers argued that the Prosecution had not provided sufficient evidence to necessitate a defense. They claimed that the iron sheets’ designation was unclear and that witnesses failed to link Lugoloobi to the scene of the alleged crime.
However, the prosecution maintained that Lugoloobi’s direct presence was not essential for a conviction, as evidence indicated that the iron sheets were misused.
