Waititu’s Detention Continues as Court Extends Custody Period
Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu will remain in custody for another month, following a recent court decision.
High Court Judge Lucy Njuguna has postponed the ruling on Waititu’s request to amend his appeal until April 23rd.
This decision marks a significant setback for Waititu, who had filed a new application seeking release on bond while serving his jail term for corruption. This application followed his initial appeal against the conviction, which is still pending.
On February 13th, Waititu was sentenced to 12 years in prison or a fine of Ksh53.5 million after being found guilty of illegally awarding a tender during his governorship. Specifically, he received a five-year sentence or a Ksh2.5 million fine, plus a mandatory Ksh51 million fine or seven more years in prison.
His wife, Susan Wangare, was also fined Ksh500,000 or a year in jail, with the terms to run concurrently. The court condemned Waititu’s actions, stating they undermined good governance.
Waititu then appealed, requesting bail, which the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) successfully opposed. He claimed diminishing health, including chest pains and high blood pressure, but remained in Industrial Area prison.
During his latest court appearance, Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka and Democratic Action Party-Kenya leader Eugene Wamalwa showed their support.
Luka Mwangi Wahinya, former Chief Officer, Roads, Transport, Public Works and Utilities, received a two-year sentence or a Ksh1 million fine, plus a mandatory Ksh20 million fine or five more years in prison.
Charles Chege Mbuthia and Beth Wangeci Mburu, directors of Testimony Enterprises Limited, were jailed for four and three years, respectively, or fines of Ksh2 million and Ksh1.4 million, with mandatory fines of Ksh294 million and Ksh294 million.
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Waititu’s Detention Continues as Court Extends Custody Period
