Ferdinand Ndung’u Waititu, the former Governor of Kiambu County, has faced a landmark corruption case that has captured national attention. On February 12, 2025, Waititu, his wife Susan Wangari Ndung’u, and several associates were found guilty of multiple corruption-related charges in a Kshs. 588 million road tender scandal.

The case, investigated by the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC), uncovered irregularities in the award of contracts for road upgrades in Kiambu County.

The Anti-Corruption Court, under Chief Magistrate Hon. Thomas Nzioki, delivered a historic judgment, convicting the former governor and his co-accused on charges of fraud, conflict of interest, money laundering, and abuse of office.

This case has set a precedent for corruption cases involving high-profile political figures in Kenya. It highlights the government’s commitment to fighting corruption and ensuring accountability in public office.

The ruling has far-reaching implications on governance, justice, and public trust in institutions tasked with combating corruption.

Waititu Judgement: A Landmark Corruption Case in Kenya

Background of the Case

The corruption allegations against Waititu date back to 2017 when concerns were raised over irregularities in Kiambu County’s procurement process. Investigations revealed that Testimony Enterprises Limited, a firm awarded a lucrative road tender, had connections to the governor and his associates. The firm was granted a contract worth Kshs. 588 million to upgrade roads in Thika, Limuru, Gatundu North, Juja, and Ruiru Sub-Counties. However, further scrutiny showed that the contract was awarded without proper due diligence, and fraudulent financial transactions were involved.

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), upon reviewing the EACC’s report, approved charges against Waititu, his wife, and other accused parties. They were arraigned in court on July 19, 2021, facing counts of fraud, conflict of interest, money laundering, and abuse of office. By September 2023, the court ruled that Waititu had a case to answer and put him and his co-accused on trial.

Key Findings of the Court

Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzioki’s ruling on February 12, 2025, established several critical findings:

• Conflict of Interest: Waititu was found guilty of having an indirect personal interest in the road tender. He illegally obtained Kshs. 25,624,500 from Testimony Enterprises Limited through his company, Saika Two Estate Developers Ltd.
• Money Laundering: The court found that funds from the irregularly awarded tender were funneled through businesses associated with the governor and his wife, including Bienvenue Delta Hotel.
• Abuse of Office: Luke Waihinya, former Chief Officer for Roads, was convicted of improperly awarding a Kshs. 588 million contract to Testimony Enterprises Ltd, despite the firm not meeting procurement standards.
• Fraudulent Practices: Testimony Enterprises Ltd and its directors, Charles Chege and Beth Wangeci, were found guilty of fraudulently acquiring Kshs. 147,274,055 by submitting forged degree certificates in the tendering process.

Sentencing and Implications

The sentencing of the convicted individuals is set for February 13, 2025. Legal analysts predict heavy penalties, including possible long-term imprisonment and hefty fines. This ruling is a major victory in Kenya’s fight against corruption and is expected to serve as a deterrent to other public officials engaging in corrupt activities.

Waititu Judgement FAQs

1. What were the main charges against Waititu? Waititu faced charges of conflict of interest, money laundering, abuse of office, and fraudulent acquisition of public property.

2. Who else was convicted alongside Waititu? His wife, Susan Wangari Ndung’u, former Chief Officer Luke Waihinya, and Testimony Enterprises Ltd directors, Charles Chege and Beth Wangeci, were also found guilty.

3. How much money was involved in the corruption scandal? The total amount involved was Kshs. 588 million, with fraudulent transactions amounting to over Kshs. 147 million.

4. What is the significance of this ruling? This ruling sets a precedent for prosecuting high-profile corruption cases in Kenya and strengthens the country’s anti-corruption framework.

5. What penalties could Waititu face? He may face a long-term prison sentence and substantial fines, which will be determined during sentencing on February 13, 2025.

6. How does this case affect the political landscape in Kenya? It sends a strong message that no public official is above the law and may influence future governance policies.

7. What happens next after the conviction? The court will reconvene for sentencing, and there may be appeals from the convicted parties.

Conclusion

The conviction of former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu in the Kshs. 588 million graft case marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s fight against corruption.

The case highlights the critical role of institutions like the EACC and DPP in holding public officials accountable. As the nation awaits sentencing, this judgment reinforces the importance of integrity and transparency in public service.

Moving forward, it is crucial for citizens to remain vigilant and demand accountability from their leaders. If you want to stay updated on major corruption cases and governance matters, follow our platform for timely and in-depth analysis.