Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu and his co-accused have pleaded for non-custodial or lenient sentences in the Ksh588 million corruption case. They cited their individual roles, family obligations, and time already served in custody. Waititu apologized for his actions and urged the court to treat him and his wife, Susan Wangari, as first-time offenders. He emphasized that his company, Saika Enterprises, was operational before he became governor.
Waititu's defense attorneys asked the court to evaluate each convict's specific level of participation rather than applying uniform penalties. They highlighted that prolonged prison terms for both spouses would leave minor children without care or financial support. The defense also urged the court to factor in time already served, noting Waititu has spent over a year in prison while another co-accused has been held for nearly two years.
Lawyers representing Wangari argued she was neither an account signatory nor a primary beneficiary of the funds, acting largely as a silent business partner. Co-accused Charles Chege, a director of Testimony Enterprises Limited, similarly pleaded for his wife's leniency, emphasizing her single-share stake and non-signatory status. The court is expected to weigh these mitigation submissions before handing down the final sentences.
The mitigation proceedings followed the High Court's October 15 decision by Justice Rose Ougo, which upheld their convictions and overturned their prior acquittal on money laundering charges. Waititu and his co-accused were convicted of corruption charges related to the Ksh588 million graft case. The court's decision marked a significant development in the case.
Waititu's company, Saika Enterprises, and Delta Hotel were mentioned in the case. The defense highlighted the human toll of dual parental incarceration, pointing out that prolonged prison terms for both spouses would have severe consequences for their children. The court will consider these factors when determining the final sentences.
The case has garnered significant attention in Kenya, with many Kenyans following the developments. The court's decision will have implications for corruption cases in the country. The mitigation submissions made by Waititu and his co-accused will be crucial in determining their final sentences.
The court is yet to deliver its final sentences. Waititu's apology and plea for leniency may be taken into consideration. The case will continue to be closely watched by the public and the media.
Key points
- Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu and his co-accused plead for leniency in Ksh588 million corruption case.
- Waititu apologizes for his actions and urges the court to treat him and his wife as first-time offenders.
- The court will consider mitigation submissions before handing down the final sentences.
