In connection with a crisis involving the suspected theft of roofing supplies from the government that has implicated numerous officials, Uganda’s junior finance minister Amos Lugoloobi was charged on Monday with corruption offenses.
The suspected theft and diversion of metal roofing sheets intended for a relief program in the unrest-ridden northeastern Karamoja region, which borders Kenya and South Sudan and is home to pastoral nomads, has drawn the attention of police investigators and prosecutors in the east African nation.
Lugoloobi was accused of “dealing with suspect property” in court in Kampala, the country’s capital, and has been detained since last Friday.
He entered a not-guilty plea and was held until Thursday when he will show up again in court to hear the outcome of his application for bail.
The second minister to face charges was Lugoloobi. According to police, they are reviewing the files of numerous additional public figures, including ministers who could be charged.
