Three ministers on Wednesday announced their resignation from cabinet pending their investigation and trial in a case where they are accused of mismanaging funds during the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting that Uganda hosted in 2007.

Ministers Sam Kutesa of Foreign Affairs, Mwesigwa Rukutana of Labour and John Nasasasira the rulling NRM Chief Whip have announced they have stepped aside from their positions.

NRM Chief Whip - John Nasasira

The three ministers are due to appear in the Anti Corruption Court on Thursday to start defending themselves against charges by the Inspector General of Government of abuse of office and causing financial loss to the government.

According to the IGG prosecutor Rogers Kinobe, the three while performing their duties, did, in abuse of authority, irregularly convened a consultative cabinet meeting and decided to that the government would fully fund the construction cost of the drive ways, parking areas and marina at Speke Resort Munyonyo hotel, which decision caused the government a loss of 14 billion shillings. Now called Commonwealth Resort Munyonyo, the Sudhir Ruparelia owned facility was meant to accommodate visiting Presidents attending the CHOGM.

“We have, in order to allow for the due process of the Court, which we highly believe in, and in the interest of the party to which we belong and the Government we serve, deemed it prudent and desirable to seek leave from our Appointing authority so as to step aside, until this matter is concluded,” reads the statement signed by the three ministers.