The Anti-Corruption Court has sentenced former State Minister for Karamoja Affairs, Agnes Nandutu, to four years in prison for her role in the diversion of iron sheets intended for vulnerable communities.
In a landmark ruling delivered today, Friday, April 10, 2026, the court also barred Nandutu from holding any public office for the next 10 years, effectively halting her political career.
The Verdict: Justice for Karamoja
The sentencing follows her conviction on April 8, 2026, where the court found her guilty of knowingly receiving and retaining 2,000 iron sheets that were part of a government affirmative action programme for the Karamoja sub-region.
The presiding judge noted that Nandutu had reason to believe the property had been irregularly diverted from its intended beneficiaries—the most vulnerable residents of Karamoja.
Rejected Pleas for Leniency
Despite a spirited plea from her legal team for a non-custodial (community service or fine) sentence, the court opted for jail time. Nandutu’s pleas included:
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Health Grounds: Citing ill health.
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Personal Circumstances: Being a first-time offender and a single mother of seven.
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Restitution: Highlighting that she returned the physical iron sheets and paid cash for the missing ones.
The court, however, emphasized that the gravity of the corruption and the impact on the Karamoja people necessitated a custodial sentence to serve as a deterrent.
“I Was Misled” – Nandutu Apologizes to President Museveni
In an emotional address before her sentencing, Nandutu apologized directly to President Yoweri Museveni, stating she was “misled” during the process.
“Whatever happened, I am sorry. I willingly returned the iron sheets after finding out they were intended for Karamoja,” she told the court.
Timeline of the Karamoja Iron Sheets (Mabaati) Scandal
The “Mabaati Scandal” has been one of the most high-profile corruption cases in recent Ugandan history, involving several top government officials.
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February 2023: Reports first emerge of iron sheets meant for Karamoja being found in the possession of various ministers.
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April 2023: Agnes Nandutu is first charged and remanded to Luzira Prison.
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April 8, 2026: Nandutu is officially convicted of dealing with suspect property.
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April 10, 2026: Court hands down a 4-year prison sentence and a 10-year ban from public office.
