Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has once again sought a reprieve, filing a new application on Tuesday, March 18, requesting to be released on bond as he continues serving his prison sentence.
This latest move comes after his initial appeal against the jail term, which remains under review.
Waititu was convicted of corruption-related charges and sentenced on February 13, when the court found him guilty of illegally awarding a tender during his tenure as Kiambu County Governor.
The Milimani Anti-Corruption Court sentenced him to 12 years in prison or an alternative fine of Ksh53.5 million.
During the ruling, Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzioki sentenced Waititu to five years behind bars or a fine of Ksh2.5 million. Additionally, the court imposed a mandatory fine of Ksh51 million, which, if unpaid, would result in an extra seven years in prison.
The court also ruled against Waititu’s wife, Susan Wangare, directing her to either pay a fine of Ksh500,000 or serve one year in jail. However, the magistrate stated that the sentences for all accused persons would run concurrently.
Court’s Harsh Judgment
In his judgment, Magistrate Nzioki emphasized that Waititu’s actions could not be forgiven, as they directly undermined the principles of good governance. He noted that the corruption scandal showcased a complete breach of public trust.
“This case is a clear example of public trust being abused by the former governor and his co-accused. Their actions were deliberate, unjustifiable, and a serious violation of governance principles,” the magistrate declared.
Despite his conviction, Waititu quickly moved to file an appeal while simultaneously requesting bail. However, the court denied his request after the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) successfully opposed it.
Waititu Cites Health Issues in Appeal
In his appeal, Waititu argued that his health was deteriorating, citing severe chest pains and high blood pressure. However, the court was not convinced, leading to his continued confinement at Industrial Area Prison in Nairobi.
Adding to his woes, the court also raised concerns about the forgery of his academic certificates, pointing out that such dishonesty was unacceptable, particularly at a time when many young Kenyans struggle with unemployment.
Other Convicted Officials
Waititu was not the only one sentenced in the corruption case. Others convicted alongside him included:
- Luka Mwangi Wahinya, former Chief Officer for Roads, Transport, and Public Works, who was sentenced to two years in prison or a fine of Ksh1 million. He was also required to pay a mandatory fine of Ksh20 million or serve an additional five years in jail.
- Charles Chege Mbuthia and Beth Wangeci Mburu, directors of Testimony Enterprises Limited, the company at the center of the fraudulent tender, were also sentenced.
- Mbuthia received four years in prison or a fine of Ksh2 million, along with a mandatory fine of Ksh294 million.
- Mburu was sentenced to three years in jail or a fine of Ksh1.4 million.
With Waititu still behind bars, his fresh application for bail is now awaiting determination. It remains to be seen whether the court will grant him relief or uphold its initial ruling.
Join Gen z and millennials TaskForce official 2025 WhatsApp Channel To Stay Updated On time the ongoing situation https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaWT5gSGufImU8R0DO30
