Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has been released from prison on a Sh53 million bond as he awaits the outcome of his appeal in a Sh588 million corruption case.
Waititu, who had been serving a 12-year prison sentence or an alternative fine of Sh52.5 million, was convicted in February 2024 for conflict of interest in road construction tenders awarded during his time as governor. He was accused of influencing procurement deals that benefitted companies linked to him and his family.
High Court Judge Lucy Njuguna, who had earlier rejected two bond applications, granted the bond following a new application that included additional evidence and fresh grounds for appeal. This decision allows Waititu to remain free while his appeal is considered in court over the coming months.
In the same case, Waititu’s wife, Susan Ndung’u, was sentenced to one year in prison or a Sh500,000 fine. Their co-accused, Charles Chege, the director of Testimony Enterprises Limited, received a nine-year jail term or an alternative fine of Sh295 million. Another director, Beth Wangeci, was sentenced to one year in jail or a Sh1 million fine.
The court found all four guilty of corruption-related offences but acquitted them on three counts of money laundering. As part of the ruling, Waititu was also barred from holding any political office for seven years, further complicating his political future.
The charges stemmed from fraudulent road construction tenders awarded in Kiambu County when Waititu served as governor. Investigations revealed that companies associated with Waititu’s family received contracts under questionable circumstances, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in county governments.
Waititu’s release marks a significant turn in one of Kenya’s most closely watched graft cases involving a former county boss. It also underscores the challenges the judiciary faces in securing lasting convictions in high-profile corruption cases.
The High Court is expected to hear Waititu’s amended appeal soon. Until then, he will remain out of prison under strict bond terms.
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