Minister Amos Lugoloobi has begun his defense today in the Karamoja iron sheets case, denying any wrongdoing and claiming selective prosecution.
Lugoloobi, who serves as the Minister of State for Finance and the representative member for Ntenjeru North, Kayunga District , told the Anti-Corruption Court that he received the iron sheets as part of his official duties as an MP and minister.
Lugoloobi explained that his role as an MP involves providing representation, legislation, and public goods to his constituents. He emphasized that the delivery of public goods is a partnership between the government, the community, and leaders representing those communities.
Regarding the iron sheets, Lugoloobi claimed that they were part of the Luwero-Rwenzori affirmative action program, which aims to reduce inequalities and cover gaps in communities. He stated that he did not physically collect the iron sheets from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) but instead directed his assistants to arrange for their collection and storage.
Lugoloobi also highlighted that he is not the only government official who received iron sheets, mentioning several other ministers and MPs who also benefited from the program but were not prosecuted. He questioned why he was being singled out for prosecution, suggesting that there may be selective prosecution at play.
The case against Lugoloobi stems from allegations that he mismanaged iron sheets intended for vulnerable communities in Karamoja. The court had previously ruled that he had a case to answer, and he was scheduled to begin his defense on January 15, 2025.
