The High Court in Kampala has adjourned the case involving State Minister for Planning, Amos Lugoloobi, to September 4, 2025. Lugoloobi is facing charges related to the theft of relief items intended for vulnerable communities in Karamoja.
The Minister, who also serves as Member of Parliament for Ntenjeru North, is battling two counts of dealing with suspect property contrary to Section 21A of the Anti-Corruption Act.
If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of seven years in prison.
According to the prosecution, between July 14, 2022, and February 28, 2023, Lugoloobi allegedly dealt with 300 pre-painted iron sheets marked “OPM” (Office of the Prime Minister).
The items were reportedly distributed from OPM stores in Namanve, Mukono District, and later found in various locations including Matugga in Wakiso District and Ntenjeru Constituency.
Appearing before Acting Principal Judge Jane Okuo Kajuga, Lugoloobi’s lawyer, John Isabirye, informed the court that his client had traveled to Yokohama, Japan on official government business on August 14, and had formally communicated this to the court on August 18.
However, State Attorney Josephine Namatovu criticized the minister’s repeated absences, arguing that they were causing unnecessary delays.
She urged the court to reconsider the terms of his bail.
In response, Justice Kajuga ordered that Minister Lugoloobi must not leave the country again without explicit permission from the court.
By Alex Magala
19th Aug 2025
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