Minister Nandutu Granted Bail

The Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court in Kampala has granted bail to the State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Agnes Nandutu.

The minister filed for bail because it is her constitutional right to apply for bail. She cited a health condition that needs close attention, a permanent residence, a young family and elderly parents who depend on her.

Delivering her ruling, Lady Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga, said no proof has been provided to challenge granting the minister bail.

As part of the bail terms, Nandutu was ordered to pay Shs10m cash. Her sureties were also ordered to pay Shs50 million non-cash.

She was also asked to deposit with the court two titles of her land in Mukono and her passport. She was also barred from travelling outside without the court’s permission.

Nandutu will have to report to court as directed in the main case for trial on May 25, 2023.

Justice Kajuga directed that the state completes the disclosure of evidence against Nandutu to her lawyers by May 5, 2023,  before the trial officially kicks off on May, 25.

Nandutu had been on remand at Luzira prison since April 19 after she was charged with dealing with suspect property in connection to the Karamoja iron sheets scandal.

She was instantly committed to the High Court shortly after she took a plea.

The prosecution alleges that Nandutu between June and July 2022, at the Office of the Prime Minister’s stores in Namanve, and in Kkola Cell, Bulwanyi Parish, Mukono District, dealt with government property to which 2,000 pre-painted iron sheets of gauge 28 marked office of the Prime Minister.