Karamoja Iron Sheets Scandal! Minister Kitutu Appears At Anti-Corruption Court Over Corruption
The Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Mary Goretti Kitutu on Thursday morning was presented before the Anti-Corruption Court in Kololo on charges of corruption and conspiracy to commit a felony following the diversion of iron sheets meant for the Karamoja region.
While appearing in court today, the minister wrapped a purple scarf over her head to avoid journalists from capturing clear pictures of her. She arrived in a black car and was quickly escorted inside the court by police officers.
This follows sanctions from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) over charges of corruption and conspiracy to commit a felony against her for allegedly diverting iron sheets meant for the Karamoja.
“The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Jane Frances Abodo has consented to the charges. The Police have been directed to produce the Minister in court for plea tomorrow (April 6),” the ODPP said on Wednesday evening.
Ms Kitutu is accused of failing to deliver iron sheets and other relief items meant for Karamoja, some of which she allegedly diverted to non-intended beneficiaries, including her close relatives.
In a remote region bordering Kenya and South Sudan, the Karamoja region is home to pastoral nomads vulnerable to frequent droughts and deadly cattle raids.
Meanwhile, Police also arrested three close relatives of Ms Kitutu in February for selling metal roofing sheets branded with “Office of the Prime Minister”, according to a report in the government-owned New Vision newspaper.
Appearing before a parliamentary committee last month, she asked for forgiveness for the mismanagement of the distribution of metal roofing sheets.
