The Anti-Corruption Division of the High Court has sentenced Bududa District Woman Member of Parliament Agnes Nandutu to four years in prison for her role in the illegal acquisition and possession of government iron sheets intended for vulnerable Karachuna in Karamoja.
The iron sheets, in which she is implicated in stealing, are also to be returned to Office of Prime Minister(OPM).
Earlier on Friday 10th, Nandutu who is ex-State Minister for Karamoja Affairs apologised to the government and the country for her role in the Karamoja iron sheets scandal, moments after the State asked the court to impose a custodial sentence of five years in prison.
She appeared before Anti-Corruption Court judge Jane Kajuga, who delivered her sentence this afternoon.
While addressing the court in mitigation, Nandutu asked for leniency and a non-custodial sentence, citing her family responsibilities and deteriorating health.
“My Lord, you said the sentence carries a maximum of seven years and a fine not exceeding 160 currency points. I pray that I am given a non-custodial sentence to enable me to take care of my young family since I am the only breadwinner,” she said.
She told the court that she supports several dependants, including school-going children, orphans, and her elderly mother.
“I am a single mother of nine school-going children, and I am the only able person in my family. I take care of my ailing mother, who is 80 years old,” Nandutu said.
She also cited medical challenges, telling the court that she has been in and out of the hospital and suffers from blood clots in her lungs.
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