Waititu’s Renewed Bail Appeal

Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has renewed his bid for freedom as he seeks release on bond pending the appeal of his 12-year prison sentence for corruption. This marks his second attempt after the High Court denied his initial bail request on March 3, 2025, citing insufficient grounds for his release.

In his latest application, Waititu argues that since he was given the option to pay a fine of Ksh53.5 million instead of serving the full prison term, it would be unfair to remain incarcerated while his appeal is pending. He maintains that if his appeal fails, he would still have the choice to pay the fine, making his continued imprisonment unnecessary at this stage.

Graft Conviction and Legal Defense

The former governor, convicted of fraudulent procurement practices linked to a Ksh588 million tender, asserts that the charges against him were defective and that no direct evidence linked him to the misappropriated funds. He further claims that the trial court erred in treating the matter as a criminal case rather than a procurement dispute.

Corruption Allegations and Scandals

Waititu’s legal troubles, however, extend far beyond the current corruption case. During his tenure as Kiambu Governor, he was accused of inflating county budgets, allocating dubious tenders to his close associates, and overseeing ghost projects that cost taxpayers millions. Additionally, he was infamously recorded allegedly soliciting kickbacks from contractors in exchange for tenders, a scandal that fueled public outrage.

Impeachment and Land Grabbing Accusations

In 2019, the Senate impeached Waititu over allegations of gross misconduct and abuse of office, making him the first governor to be successfully removed from office through an impeachment vote. His tenure was also marred by accusations of land grabbing, including claims that he illegally seized public land meant for road expansion projects.

Court’s Response and Next Steps

The High Court has directed the Director of Public Prosecutions to respond to Waititu’s supplementary petition within three days before further directions are given on the hearing of his appeal.

Public Perception and the Fight Against Corruption

Waititu’s conviction marked one of the highest-profile graft cases in Kenya, underscoring the government’s intensified crackdown on corruption among high-ranking officials. However, his case remains a focal point of debate, with some viewing him as a victim of political persecution while others argue that his prosecution is a necessary step in fighting corruption.

Awaiting the Court’s Decision

As the legal battle continues, all eyes are on the High Court’s next move—will Waititu secure temporary freedom, or will he remain behind bars as his appeal is determined?

Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu renews his bail appeal after his corruption conviction. Will he secure freedom or remain in prison? Read the latest updates.