High Court releases ex-Governor Waititu on KSh53M bond
Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has been freed after the High Court approved his release on a KSh53 million bond. This comes six months into his 12-year sentence linked to a massive KSh588 million corruption case.
Waititu had been convicted in March 2025 on charges of conflict of interest and misuse of public funds during his term in office. He was initially given the option of a 12-year prison term or paying a KSh52.5 million fine.
The bond allows Waititu to remain out of jail while he appeals both the guilty verdict and the sentence. His legal team is banking on the appeal to clear his name and expose what they claim were legal loopholes in the trial.
The prosecution had linked him to irregular tendering processes and the loss of taxpayer funds while serving as governor between 2017 and 2020.
Apart from the sentence, the court ruled that Waititu would not be allowed to hold or seek public office for seven years. This decision aligns with Kenya’s constitutional requirements under Chapter Six on leadership and integrity.
The ban aims to promote clean leadership and block individuals with serious integrity issues from holding key positions in government.
Waititu’s wife, Susan Ndung’u, was also caught up in the scandal. The court found her guilty of playing a role in the mismanagement of funds. She was fined KSh500,000 or serve a 1-year jail term.
The ruling against the couple stirred wider debate on how corruption cases often involve family members and close allies of public figures.
Waititu’s troubles date back to his time as Kiambu Governor. The KSh588 million corruption saga revolved around shady deals, questionable tenders, and blatant disregard for procurement laws.
His administration was investigated by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) and prosecuted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). These agencies termed the case a major win in the fight against economic crimes.
Kenyans have shared mixed reactions online and offline. Some believe the bail decision shows how the rich and powerful can dodge punishment. Others argue that every accused person has a right to appeal.
Activists, however, say Waititu’s release might send a bad message about accountability, especially in high-profile graft cases.
