Nandutu Iron Sheets Trial: Assessors to Give Opinion on April 1

The trial of former State Minister for Karamoja Affairs Agnes Nandutu over the iron sheets scandal is advancing, with assessors set to deliver their non-binding opinions on April 1, 2026, at the Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court in Kampala.

Justice Jane Kajuga directed the assessors to meticulously examine all evidence presented by the prosecution and defense. She stressed their role in independently evaluating whether the state has proven its case beyond reasonable doubt.

Under the Anti-Corruption Act, the prosecution must show that Nandutu dealt with property—specifically 2,000 pre-painted iron sheets intended for vulnerable Karamoja communities—acquired through loss of public resources, and that she knew or should have known it was wrongly obtained.

Kajuga outlined key elements for consideration: proof of handling the property, its link to an offence, and Nandutu’s knowledge of its illicit nature. She urged assessing witness credibility, cross-examination impacts, and any defense that raises doubt.

The burden remains squarely on the prosecution, with acquittal advised if doubt persists. Nandutu previously claimed she was sidelined by her senior, Mary Goretti Kitutu, and denied key information.

The prosecution alleges the sheets were diverted from the Office of the Prime Minister stores in 2022. The judge will issue the final verdict after reviewing the assessors’ input.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)