Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has been sentenced to 12 years in prison or pay a Ksh53.5 million fine, following a ruling by the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court on Thursday.
The court also imposed a Ksh500,000 fine on his wife, Susan Wangare, with the alternative of serving a one-year prison sentence.
However, the court clarified that their sentences would run concurrently.
Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzioki ruled that Waititu’s conduct was inexcusable, emphasizing that his actions had undermined the principles of good governance.
The magistrate observed that the case was a clear example of a breach of public trust, stating that both the former governor and his co-accused had knowingly engaged in acts of corruption that were deliberate and unjustifiable.
According to the court, Waititu and his associates benefited from their criminal dealings, prioritizing personal gain over public service delivery.
The magistrate further pointed out concerns regarding forged academic credentials, stressing that such offenses were particularly troubling given the high unemployment rate among young graduates.
The sentencing comes a day after the court found Waititu guilty of multiple offenses, including conflict of interest, unauthorized award of tenders, and forgery of official documents.
The former governor was also convicted of dealing with suspect property and violating procurement laws.
In their defense, Waititu and his co-accused had pleaded for a non-custodial sentence, arguing that they had endured significant hardships since their legal battles began and should be given another chance.
In addition to the sentencing, the court ordered that all documents seized during the investigations, including passports and title deeds, be returned to the accused.
The judge also granted a 14-day window for Waititu and his co-accused to appeal both the ruling and the judgment.
