Uganda (Kaab TV) – Agnes Nandutu, the former State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, has been sentenced to four years in prison after being found guilty of stealing construction materials, particularly iron sheets intended for vulnerable communities. The case has sparked strong public reaction.
The stolen materials were reported to total around 2,000 items, mostly iron sheets. In court, Nandutu pleaded for forgiveness, expressing remorse for her actions and acknowledging the offense.
The theft occurred in 2022. Following the emergence of the case, she was dismissed from the Cabinet. Additionally, the court ruled that she is barred from holding any public office for a period of 10 years.
Her lawyer argued that the sentence is harsh and should be reduced, noting that she cooperated with authorities, did not mislead investigators, and openly explained her role in the incident.
Prosecutors welcomed the ruling, describing it as fair and a strong warning to anyone who diverts resources meant for poor citizens supported by the government.
The iron sheet theft case has generated widespread debate and reaction across Uganda. Many citizens, especially those from vulnerable communities, have called for stricter oversight of aid distribution to prevent corruption and further misuse of donated resources.