Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has been fined KSh21 million over three money laundering charges linked to the irregular award of a KSh588.7 million road construction tender. The fines were imposed by the Milimani court in three separate counts. Waititu was fined KSh10 million, KSh6 million, and KSh5 million, with default prison terms of five, four, and four years, respectively.
The penalties come as Waititu serves a 12-year prison sentence following his conviction in a corruption case. The court directed that the additional sentences run concurrently with the existing jail term, in line with earlier High Court directions. This development is part of a long-running case involving a KSh588.7 million contract awarded by the Kiambu County Government to Testimony Enterprises Limited.
Investigators established that proceeds from the contract were transferred to companies associated with Waititu and his co-accused. The contract was for upgrading gravel roads to bitumen standards across several sub-counties. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission reported that more than KSh25.6 million was channelled through Saika Two Estate Developers, while KSh7.214 million was received through Bienvenue Delta Hotel.
The court also fined companies and individuals convicted alongside Waititu, including Testimony Enterprises Limited, Saika Two Estate Developers Limited, and Bienvenue Delta Hotel. Testimony Enterprises was fined KSh36 million across three counts, while Saika Two Estate Developers received fines totalling KSh24 million. The fines were imposed in connection with the money laundering charges.
The latest sentences follow a High Court decision that overturned earlier acquittals on the money laundering charges and entered convictions. The court directed the corporate accused persons to settle their respective fines within 14 days, failure to which the applicable legal consequences would follow. This decision marks a significant development in the case against Waititu and his co-accused.
The case has been ongoing for several years, with Waititu and his co-accused facing multiple charges related to corruption and money laundering. The former governor's conviction and sentencing are part of a broader effort to combat corruption in Kenya. The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission has been actively pursuing cases against high-profile individuals accused of corruption.
Waititu's additional jail term and fines are a significant blow to his and his co-accused, who have been found guilty of serious corruption offences. The court's decision sends a strong message about the consequences of engaging in corrupt activities, particularly for those in positions of power. The case highlights the importance of accountability and the rule of law in Kenya.
Key points
- Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu fined KSh21 million over money laundering charges
- Waititu serves a 12-year prison sentence for corruption convictions
- Court directs corporate accused persons to settle fines within 14 days
