The trial of Karamoja Affairs Minister Mary Gorreti Kitutu Kimono has been temporarily halted by the Anti Corruption Court in Uganda. Kitutu is facing charges of causing loss of public property after being accused of diverting iron sheets intended for the Karamoja Community Empowerment Program. However, the trial has been put on hold pending the resolution of an application filed by Kitutu, in which she alleges torture and human rights violations while in police custody.
The prosecution claims that Kitutu, along with her brother Michael Naboya Kitutu and her Personal Assistant Joshua Abaho, diverted a significant number of iron sheets from the intended purpose of benefiting the Karamoja community. It is alleged that they used the iron sheets for their own personal gain and distributed them to third parties. The prosecution further asserts that Kitutu’s brother received some of these iron sheets in Namisindwa district.
In her application against the Attorney General, Kitutu argues that she was subjected to various forms of torture, including being denied food and water, while in police custody. She alleges that she was interrogated by nine police officers who confiscated her phones and forced her to take an oath without the presence of her lawyers. Kitutu also claims that there has been a targeted media campaign against her, aimed at prejudicing her case.
Kitutu’s lawyers have requested the court to halt the trial until her application is resolved. However, the prosecution opposes this, arguing that the question of human rights violations should have been raised during the proceedings and that a distinct application has already been filed.
In her ruling, High Court Lady Justice Jane Okuo Kajuga acknowledged Kitutu’s application and the issues of human rights violations raised. She agreed that these concerns should be addressed before proceeding with the trial. The court has scheduled the hearing for Kitutu’s application on September 19th, 2023, while the main case will continue to be mentioned until the application is determined. The trial itself is set to begin on September 14th, 2023.
The decision to halt the trial marks an important development in Kitutu’s case, as it allows for a thorough examination of the allegations of torture and human rights violations. The court’s ruling reflects the significance of upholding fundamental human rights and ensuring a fair and impartial trial process. As the case progresses, it will be crucial to maintain a balanced approach and consider all perspectives to determine the truth and deliver justice accordingly.
