Former Karamoja Minister Agnes Nandutu has tearfully pleaded for leniency before her sentencing, asking for forgiveness from the people of Karamoja, the President, and her constituents. Appearing in court, Nandutu expressed deep remorse for her actions, acknowledging the gravity of her offence.
Before the defence team presented its submissions, the court granted Nandutu permission to address the bench personally. “I would like to express my remorse to the people of Karamoja and the appointing authority. Please forgive me,” she said, her voice breaking with emotion.
Nandutu also appealed for a non-custodial sentence, citing serious health concerns. She revealed that she has lumps in her lungs, which occasionally cause her to lose consciousness. Additionally, she emphasised her role as a single mother to seven children and the sole caregiver to her 81-year-old mother, underscoring the potential impact of imprisonment on her family.
In seeking mitigation, Nandutu informed the court that she had returned the iron sheets in question and compensated for those that were missing. She urged the judge to consider this restitution as a factor in determining her sentence.
However, the prosecution maintained a firm stance, requesting a minimum sentence of five years. Prosecutors argued that the iron sheets had remained in Nandutu’s possession for nine months, suggesting the offence was premeditated. They also dismissed the defence’s claim that returning the items warranted leniency, pointing out that the legislator only did so after police intervention.
After hearing arguments from both sides, trial judge Jane Okuo adjourned the proceedings, ordering the court to reconvene at 3pm for final sentencing. The outcome of the case is being closely watched, given Nandutu’s former ministerial role and the broader implications for governance and accountability in Uganda.
