Iron sheets scandal: Court orders for independent probe into ex-minister Nandutu’s health
Frustrated by the inconsistencies, Justice Kajuga criticized Nandutu’s lawyers for what she called “a lack of seriousness and professionalism” and dismissed their request for a private audience to explain the minister’s medical condition.
The Anti-Corruption Court has directed that former State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Agnes Nandutu, to undergo an independent medical examination at Mulago National Referral Hospital following what the judge termed as conflicting claims about her health.
The ruling was made by Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga after Nandutu failed to take the stand to defend herself against allegations of being in possession of government-owned iron sheets meant for vulnerable youth (Karacunas) in the Karamoja sub-region.
Nandutu, a former journalist-turned-politician, is among several high-profile figures implicated in the infamous Karamoja iron sheets scandal that rocked the government last year.
According to the prosecution, dozens of iron sheets intended for humanitarian relief efforts in Karamoja were illegally diverted and later recovered from various government officials’ homes — including Nandutu’s.
In court, her legal team claimed the former minister was in poor health and unfit to proceed with her defense, citing severe breathing complications. However, the prosecution presented a contradicting medical report indicating that Nandutu was physically stable and capable of attending court proceedings.
Frustrated by the inconsistencies, Justice Kajuga criticized Nandutu’s lawyers for what she called “a lack of seriousness and professionalism” and dismissed their request for a private audience to explain the minister’s medical condition.
“This court cannot proceed on speculation. We need verified, independent medical findings,” the judge ruled.
As a result, the court ordered Nandutu to be evaluated at Mulago National Referral Hospital and instructed both her and her legal team to return on May 5th, 2025, with the official report in hand. The case will proceed with the defense hearing based on the results of this examination.
The Karamoja iron sheets scandal has drawn intense public scrutiny and raised serious questions about accountability and misuse of relief materials intended for some of Uganda’s most marginalized communities. The government, through the Office of the Prime Minister, launched investigations last year which have since implicated multiple cabinet ministers and senior officials.
Nandutu, who has maintained her innocence, is charged with possession of suspected stolen property under Uganda’s Anti-Corruption Act. If found guilty, she faces possible imprisonment or fines, in addition to being barred from holding public office.
As the legal process unfolds, all eyes remain on the May 5th court session — and the report that could determine whether Agnes Nandutu faces trial or is granted further medical leave.
