By Kerry Howard Mwesigwa.
Criminal summons have been issued against Amos Lugoloobi, the State Minister for Labour and Planning by the Kololo-based Anti-Corruption Court. Lugoloobi is facing charges of dealing with suspect property. The criminal summons were issued upon the request of a state prosecutor, who informed the court about the minister’s absence.
During the court session, Lugoloobi’s lawyer, John Isabirye, informed the court that the minister is currently out of the country on official duties in Lusaka, Zambia. Isabirye highlighted that the state had been previously notified about the minister’s unavailability.
Lugoloobi stands accused of dealing with government property, specifically 400 pre-painted iron sheets labeled “Office of the Prime Minister.” The alleged incidents occurred on July 14, 2022, and between February 2023 and March 2023 at various locations, including OPM Stores in Namanve, Mukono District, Matugga in Wakiso District, and Ntenjeru North Constituency in Kayunga District.
The charges assert that Lugoloobi had reason to believe that the iron sheets were acquired through the loss of public property, which is an offense under Section 10(1) of the Anti-Corruption Act. The iron sheets scandal has elicited public concern, fuelling outcry over corruption and abuse of office among government officials.
Lugoloobi is among three ministers who have been charged in connection with the scandal, placing President Museveni’s government under scrutiny as it grapples with the increasing challenge of corruption within its ranks. In response to public prosecutor inquiries, the police have conducted additional investigations and addressed gaps, potentially leading to further arrests and prosecutions of high-ranking officials involved in the scandal.
The court adjourned the case to June 29.
