State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Agnes Nandutu has been charged and committed to High Court for trial on charges of dealing with suspect property contrary to section 21A(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act, 2009. She becomes the third minister to be charged for their involvement in the iron sheet scandal.
Nandutu was arrested on Tuesday after she reported at the police CID headquarters in Kibuli for interrogation over the diversion of iron sheets meant to be relief items for the people of the Karamoja sub-region.
The State attorney, David Bisamuyu told the court that inquiries into Nandutu’s case were complete.
“I have instructions from the DPP to have the suspect committed to the High Court for trial. The committal papers are before you my lord,” he said
It’s on such grounds that the Anti-Corruption Court grade one magistrate Esther Asiimwe said she cannot hear the Nandutu’s bail application following her committal.
Speaking to journalists before boarding the Uganda Prisons Services vehicle, Nandutu said, “I admit I have been baptised with fire, but I’m firm. However, why commit me to the High Court for trial when the lower (Anti-Corruption) court has the mandate to handle this case?”
She was remanded to Luzira Prison until May 3, 2023, when she’s expected to appear before the court for mention of her case.
Meanwhile, the Bududa Woman MP can only apply for bail in the High Court.