The opposition party, Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), has strongly criticized the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Jane Frances Abodo, over the closure of 17 files related to the iron sheets scandal. The party has expressed concerns yesterday that this decision will have a demoralizing effect on the Ugandan population and undermine anti-corruption institutions across the country since it was prematurely investigated.
During a media briefing held at the party’s headquarters in Najjanankumbi, Mr. John Kikonyogo, the deputy party spokesperson, expressed his views on the closure of the iron sheets scandal files by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). Mr. Kikonyogo acknowledged that while the DPP has the power to continue the case, he emphasized that the scandal is one that has garnered significant interest and investment from Ugandans who are passionate about fighting corruption.
Mr. Kikonyogo’s statement suggests that the closure of the files has deeply disappointed and frustrated individuals who have been actively involved in advocating for accountability and transparency. He likely emphasized the significance of this particular corruption case as it involves high-ranking government officials, making it even more crucial for the public to witness justice being served.
“As for the anti corruption units, do they still have the energy to continue doing their work the way they did in this one, when whatever they did was thrown into the bin?..” said Mr. Kikonyogo, the deputy FDC party spokesperson.
In a recent statement, DPP Jane Frances Abodo announced the closure of the files, which allegedly implicated several high-ranking government officials, including Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, Vice President Jessica Alupo, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, and other ministers. The closure of these files means that no charges will be pursued against the implicated individuals.
However, three ministers involved in the scandal have already been arrested and brought before the Anti-Corruption Court. Ms. Goretti Kitutu, the Minister for Karamoja Affairs, her junior minister, Ms. Agnes Nandutu, and Mr. Amos Lugoolobi, the State Minister for Planning, face charges ranging from abuse of office, conspiracy to commit a felony, dealing in suspect property, to causing financial loss to the government.
The Forum for Democratic Change has criticized the closure of the files, viewing it as a setback for the fight against corruption in Uganda. The party argues that such actions by the DPP will discourage and demoralize the public, who have been hoping for accountability and justice. They also raise concerns that the decision could have a chilling effect on anti-graft institutions throughout the country, as it sends a message that high-ranking officials can evade prosecution.
The iron sheets scandal has been a matter of public concern for the past few months. It involves allegations of corruption and financial misconduct in the procurement and distribution of iron sheets meant for vulnerable and disadvantaged communities. The closure of the 17 files raises questions about the transparency and integrity of the investigation process.
The FDC has called for a thorough review of the DPP’s decision and urged the government to ensure that all those implicated in the scandal are held accountable. They emphasize the need for robust anti-corruption measures and an independent judiciary to restore public trust and fight against graft effectively.
In light to the revelations that happened last year, the Ugandan government purchased over 100,000 pieces of iron sheets using emergency funding with the intention of distributing them to vulnerable communities in the Karamoja sub-region. However, an investigation conducted later uncovered a case of misappropriation, implicating several ministers and government officials.
According to the investigation, approximately 14,500 pieces of the iron sheets, valued at around Shs39 billion, were illegally shared among the implicated ministers and officials, instead of being allocated to the intended recipients through the Karamoja Community Empowerment Programme (KCEP).
In March, the President of Uganda personally addressed the issue by writing a letter to the minister involved, condemning the named ministers as thieves who not only engaged in political corruption but also undermined national security.
The closure of the 17 files in the iron sheets scandal has sparked a significant debate in Uganda, with civil society organizations, activists, and the general public demanding transparency, accountability, and justice. The outcome of this controversy will have implications for Uganda’s anti-corruption efforts and the public’s faith in the country’s institutions.
