The Anti-Corruption Court has ordered Amos Lugoloobi, the Minister for Economic Planning, to present his defense in the Karamoja iron sheets scandal. Lugoloobi is accused of diverting iron sheets intended for vulnerable communities in Karamoja.
On Wednesday, Lady Justice Jane Kajuugo ruled that the prosecution had provided sufficient evidence to support the charges. The case has been adjourned to January 15, 2025, when Lugoloobi is expected to present his defense.
Lady Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga stated that there is enough evidence from 11 prosecution witnesses, including a Church Reverend, to establish a case against Lugoloobi. “The evidence is sufficient to call for an explanation from the accused person, and for that reason, I find that the accused has a case to answer. He is accordingly put on his defense,” said Kajuga.
According to the prosecution, the iron sheets, which were reportedly acquired as a result of loss of property, an offense under section 10 (1) of the Anti-Corruption Court were obtained in two phases. The first phase involved 400 iron sheets between July 14, 2022, and February 2023, and the second phase involved 300 iron sheets between February 1, 2023, and March 16, 2023. These iron sheets were allegedly used for personal purposes, such as roofing a goat house on Lugoloobi’s farm and donating to a school in Kayunga District.
Lugoloobi’s lawyers, led by John Isabirye, argued that the prosecution had not provided enough evidence to require a defense, stating that the designation of the iron sheets was unclear and that witnesses did not link Lugoloobi to the alleged crime scene.
However, the prosecution maintained that Lugoloobi’s direct involvement was not necessary for a conviction, as evidence showed the iron sheets were misused.
After Lugoloobi presents his defense, all parties will be allowed to make their final submissions, either oral or written, before the matter is fixed for final judgment.
