The court, which had resumed at 1:30pm following an earlier adjournment, was informed by Nandutu’s lawyer, Charles Nanda, that they had been unable to finalise trial preparations due to the MP’s need to rest, as recommended by her doctors.
The Anti-Corruption Court has directed Mulago and Nakasero hospitals to conduct an independent medical assessment of Bududa Woman MP Agnes Nandutu’s health, after she declined to take the stand on grounds of illness.
The directive was issued by Justice Jane Kajuga on Monday afternoon after the defense team failed to proceed with Nandutu’s testimony, citing her frailty and ongoing medical treatment.
The court, which had resumed at 1:30pm following an earlier adjournment, was informed by Nandutu’s lawyer, Charles Nanda, that they had been unable to finalise trial preparations due to the MP’s need to rest, as recommended by her doctors.
“She is not in a position to proceed,” Nanda told the court.
“Her medical team advised rest during this time. We haven’t been able to finalize discussions.”
Nandutu herself requested to address the court directly, a request the judge granted.
“I am really sick,” Nandutu said through tears. “My condition is serious—if I don’t follow my treatment, it could kill me. My medication was recently changed, and I have five days to complete the course before a scheduled review.”
She asked to privately discuss the details of her illness with the judge, saying, “I cannot disclose my condition here in public, especially with men present. It is a private matter.”
In response, Justice Kajuga ordered that Nandutu undergo a fresh medical evaluation at a government facility.
“The court directs Mulago or Nakasero hospitals to investigate and submit a report on the accused’s medical condition and whether she is fit to stand trial,” the judge said.
“We want clarity. The last report said she could proceed, but she insists she cannot. We must settle this.”
Justice Kajuga criticised the defense team for their handling of the matter, expressing frustration at the repeated delays.
“I am disappointed in the lawyers,” she said. “They should have made every effort to ensure this matter moves forward. I feel the defence is intentionally trying to drag the process.”
She said the court expects a comprehensive medical report within two weeks.
“This will help us determine how to proceed. But no more stories. Lawyers, you must play your role as officers of the court,” she added.
Nandutu is among several high-profile figures accused of misappropriating iron sheets meant for vulnerable communities in the Karamoja region. She denies the charges.
The case will resume pending the findings of the medical report.
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