The Anti-Corruption Court on Tuesday, 11th November, officially dropped all charges against State Minister for Finance (Planning), Hon. Amos Lugoloobi, in the long-running Karamoja iron sheets scandal, bringing his two-year legal nightmare to an end.
The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) discontinued the case, citing lack of sufficient evidence to continue with prosecution. This decision now clears Lugoloobi of any wrongdoing in a high-profile scandal that shook government circles since 2023.
Speaking to journalists shortly after stepping out of court, an emotional Lugoloobi could not hold back his excitement, thanking God for what he described as a life-changing moment.
“Gentlemen, the Lord is good. I can’t believe this. I have to sing for the Lord because it must have been His intervention,” he said, before breaking into a praise song.
The minister opened up on the personal toll the case had taken on him, revealing that he suffered depression, financial strain, and public humiliation.
He recalled being detained in Kira Police Station and later remanded to Luzira Prison, describing the conditions as “terrible and dehumanizing.”
“I was called a ‘Mabati thief’ when actually I was not. The iron sheets were given to me through government channels, and I had no idea they belonged to Karamoja.”,he said
Lugoloobi added that the case affected not only his career but also his family and personal life.
“My American visa was cancelled, my children could not travel, my bank accounts were frozen, even my MTN line was blocked. I lost so much.”, he added
He thanked the DPP for reviewing the evidence objectively, saying the decision restored his trust in the justice system. He also appreciated President Yoweri Museveni, his legal team, supporters, and family for standing by him.
Currently on the campaign trail ahead of the 2026 elections, Lugoloobi says he can now move freely and focus on service and politics without the weight of the scandal.
“I am now a free man. I thank God again for discharging this matter. I can now go back and campaign with a clean heart.” Amos said.
The iron sheets scandal emerged in 2023 after relief items meant for vulnerable communities in Karamoja were allegedly diverted to various government officials. Lugoloobi was among the ministers charged at the time.
With the charges now dropped, the minister walks out of court relieved, waving to cheering supporters who had gathered to welcome him back.