The State Minister for Finance and Economic Planning, Amos Lugoloobi, has been issued criminal summons by the Anti-corruption court in Kampala. The Chief Magistrate, Moses Nabende, granted the summons at the request of the state prosecutor, Safina Bireke, after the minister failed to appear for the mention of his case. Lugoloobi’s legal team, led by John Isabirye and Tony Tumukunde, informed the court that the minister was out of the country on official duties.
Despite the explanation provided by Lugoloobi’s lawyers, Magistrate Nabende still issued the criminal summons against him and directed him to appear on June 29. The trial magistrate, who is currently unavailable, is expected to preside over the case when he returns. Consequently, the court adjourned the matter until June 29.
The case against Lugoloobi involves allegations of dealing in stolen government property. According to the prosecution, Lugoloobi is accused of engaging with government property, specifically 700 pre-painted iron sheets marked ‘Office of the Prime Minister.’ The iron sheets were reportedly obtained in two phases: the first involving 400 sheets between July 14, 2022, and February 2023, and the second involving 300 sheets between February 1, 2023, and March 16, 2023. These actions are considered offenses under Section 10 (1) of the Anti-Corruption Court.
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