The Anti-Corruption Court has directed Bududa Woman Member of Parliament Agnes Nandutu to begin presenting her defence in the high-profile iron sheets scandal case. The ruling came after the court rejected her lawyers’ request for another delay, citing her poor health. Presiding Judge Jane Kajuga emphasized that further postponements were unjustified, insisting that the trial must move forward without unnecessary interruptions.

Judge Kajuga delivered the decision on Monday, expressing frustration over the repeated adjournments that have slowed down the case. “This matter has been adjourned multiple times. We are stretching it unnecessarily,” she stated firmly. Addressing concerns about Nandutu’s ability to testify, the judge added, “Let her get to the stand. The court will assess her capacity through her responses.”

Nandutu is facing corruption charges for her alleged involvement in diverting iron sheets originally meant for vulnerable communities in Karamoja. The case has drawn significant public attention, with many watching closely to see how the court handles the proceedings. The MP has missed several court appearances in the past, with her legal team consistently attributing her absence to serious health complications.

During Monday’s hearing, Nandutu was present in court, but her lawyers argued that she was still too unwell to testify. Defense lawyer Caleb Alaka told the court that his client was undergoing medical treatment and was in no condition to defend herself. “Our client is frail, has difficulty breathing, and has a swollen leg. She is not fit to testify,” Alaka said. He further explained that the defence had planned to call four witnesses before concluding with Nandutu’s testimony but requested more time to allow her health to improve.

However, State Prosecutor David Bisamunyu strongly opposed the request, accusing the defence of deliberately delaying the trial. He pointed out that the case had already been postponed four times and argued that there was no fresh medical evidence to justify another adjournment. “The accused is in court. She can speak, and she can defend herself,” Bisamunyu stated. He also reminded the court that justice should not be delayed indefinitely, stressing that the complainants in the case deserved a fair and timely resolution.

Judge Kajuga sided with the prosecution, noting that the latest medical report submitted by the defence did not indicate that Nandutu was incapable of speaking or responding to questions. “There is no medical report showing she cannot remember, speak, or respond. Why not let her begin?” the judge questioned. She also criticized Nandutu’s legal team for poor coordination in managing their witness schedule, which she said contributed to the delays.

When defense lawyer Charles Wanda requested an extra day to consult with Nandutu before she took the stand, Judge Kajuga instead granted a shorter break. “I am giving you two hours. We proceed today,” she ruled. The court was then adjourned until 1 p.m., at which time Nandutu was expected to begin her defence.

The iron sheets scandal has been a major topic of discussion in Uganda, with several government officials implicated in the alleged diversion of roofing materials meant for impoverished families in Karamoja. The case against Nandutu is one of several related to the scandal, and its outcome could have significant political and legal implications.

As the trial resumes, many will be watching to see how Nandutu presents her defence and whether the court will accept her explanations. The judge’s insistence on moving forward without further delays signals a determination to ensure that the case does not drag on indefinitely. For now, all eyes remain on the courtroom as the proceedings continue.

The ruling also raises broader questions about how courts handle cases involving public officials, particularly when health issues are cited as reasons for delays. While the right to a fair trial must be respected, the judge’s decision reflects a balancing act between accommodating genuine health concerns and preventing unnecessary postponements that could undermine public confidence in the justice system.

With Nandutu set to take the stand, the next phase of the trial will be crucial in determining whether she can successfully counter the charges against her or if the prosecution’s case will prevail. Whatever the outcome, the iron sheets scandal has already left a lasting impact on Uganda’s political landscape, highlighting ongoing challenges in the fight against corruption.

As the case unfolds, the public will be waiting to see whether justice is served and whether those accused of misusing resources meant for the poor will be held accountable. For now, the court’s message is clear: delays will no longer be tolerated, and the trial must proceed.