In unprecedented move, a Kenyan court has sentenced a high-ranking politician to 12 years in jail Ksh588 million ($4.54 million) corruption case.

In addition the former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Ndung’u Waititu is barred from holding public office for 10 years after being found guilty in a Ksh588 million ($4.54 million) corruption case.

On February 13, 2025, Anti-Corruption Court Chief Magistrate Thomas Nzioki delivered the ruling, sentencing Waititu to a Sh53.5 million ($412,806) fine or 12 years in prison. His wife, Susan Wangari Ndung’u, was fined Ksh500,000 ($3,858) or sentenced to one year in jail.

Waititu’s co-accused, Luka Mwangi Wahinya, former chief officer for roads in Kiambu County, was fined Sh21 million ($162,036) or sentenced to seven years in prison for abuse of office.

Businessman Charles Chege, owner of Testimony Enterprises Ltd, was fined Ksh295 million ($2.23 million) or sentenced to nine years in prison for unlawfully acquiring Ksh147 million ($1.134 million) in public funds through irregular procurement. His wife, Beth Wangeci, was fined Ksh1.4 million ($10,802) or alternatively serve two years in prison for similar offenses.

Prosecution counsel Faith Mwila urged the court to impose a severe penalty, emphasising the need for a strong deterrence against corruption.

Waititu faced three main charges; conflict of interest in public procurement, engaging in transactions involving questionable assets and possession of unlawfully acquired property, a charge he shared with his wife, Susan Wangari Ndung’u, the owner of Benzene Delta Hotel.

The couple was accused of receiving Ksh7.2 million ($55,555) from Testimony Enterprises Ltd, despite knowing the funds were fraudulently obtained from the Kiambu County Government.

• A Tell / KNA report