KAMPALA- The Anti-Corruption Court has instructed Mulago and Nakasero hospitals to carry out an independent medical evaluation of Bududa Woman Member of Parliament Hon Agnes Nandutu after she declined to testify in court, citing health concerns.
The Anti-Corruption Court presided over Justice Jane Kajuga issued the order today afternoon after Hon Nandutu’s legal team informed the court that she was too unwell to continue with her defense due to ongoing medical treatment.
The court had earlier heard from Hon Nandutu lawyers and asked for a day to consult her but Judge Kajuga offered only 2 hours since the accused was in court and when the court reconvened following a short break, Hon Nandutu’s lawyer, Charles Nanda, said they couldn’t proceed as planned because her doctors had advised her to rest.
“She is not in a condition to give testimony,” Counsel Nanda explained, noting that discussions regarding her defense remained incomplete due to her fragile state.
In response, Justice Kajuga ordered a fresh assessment of her condition by medical professionals at Mulago or Nakasero Hospital to determine whether she is medically fit to stand trial.
“There must be clarity. A previous report said she could proceed, but she insists otherwise. We need an updated, objective evaluation,” Justice Kajuga stated.
The judge expressed dissatisfaction with the defense’s conduct, accusing them of delaying proceedings.
“I’m disappointed in the lawyers. They should have acted responsibly to ensure the case progresses. It feels like they’re deliberately slowing things down,” she remarked.
The Judge gave a two-week deadline for the submission of the medical report, stressing that it will determine the next steps in the case.
Hon Nandutu is facing corruption charges related to the alleged misappropriation of iron sheets intended for vulnerable communities in Karamoja and she maintains her innocence and her proceedings are now on hold until the medical report is submitted to court.
