Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, his wife Susan Wangari Ndungu, and several co-accused were found guilty of corruption-related charges amounting to Ksh 588 million. The verdict, delivered by Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzioki at the Milimani Anti-Corruption Court, marks the culmination of a legal battle that has spanned nearly seven years.
The case, which began in February 2018, centered on allegations of the irregular awarding of road tenders in Kiambu County. The accused were charged with a range of offenses, including abuse of office, conflict of interest, fraudulent procurement practices, and the illegal acquisition of public property. Additionally, they faced accusations of money laundering activities, although these charges were dropped following the court’s ruling.
The prosecution presented a compelling case, with 32 witnesses testifying and a total of 129 exhibits reviewed by the court. The evidence against the accused proved sufficient for the court to deliver its guilty verdict.
In his judgment, Chief Magistrate Nzioki emphasized that Waititu had failed in his duty to safeguard public resources, highlighting his violation of the oath of office. “Waititu failed the oath of office; He did not safeguard public resources as required,” Magistrate Nzioki stated.
Waititu, who was impeached by the Senate in 2020, was acquitted of the money laundering charges, but the guilty verdict on the corruption-related charges is a significant blow to his political career. His wife, Susan Wangari Ndungu, and the other co-accused are also facing serious consequences as the case progresses to sentencing.
