Waititu Seeks Instalment Plan for Sh74.2 Million Graft Fine

Former Kiambu governor Ferdinand Waititu has applied to the High Court to pay his Sh74.2 million graft fine in instalments. According to court documents, Waititu proposes to pay an initial Sh20 million, followed by monthly payments of Sh1 million until the balance is cleared. His lawyer, Chris Mutuku, filed the application through a certificate of urgency. Waititu is currently serving his sentence at Kamiti Maximum Security Prison.

Waititu's fine stems from the Sh588 million Kiambu County road tender scandal involving Testimony Enterprises. The penalties were imposed across separate counts, including a Sh1 million fine under the Anti-Corruption and Economic Crimes Act, with a default sentence of two years in prison. He was also ordered to pay a mandatory fine of Sh51.249 million, calculated at twice the alleged benefit. Additionally, Waititu faces a Sh500,000 fine, carrying a one-year default prison term, in a count involving Saika Two Estate Developers.

The High Court later reversed aspects of the money-laundering proceedings and imposed an additional Sh21 million fine. These fines collectively amount to Sh74,249,000. Waititu has offered bond and security in the form of title deeds or other assets the court considers acceptable to cover any outstanding balance. However, the court has not yet approved the payment plan, and Waititu continues to pursue an appeal against his conviction and sentence.

Waititu's defence team has cited his advanced age and ill-health as factors to consider. However, these claims have not been independently verified. Waititu has previously appeared in court alongside his wife, Susan Wangari Ndungu. The outcome of his appeal remains unknown. His penalties were imposed across multiple counts, rather than as a single sum.

The application for instalment payments does not guarantee approval. The court will review Waititu's proposal and make a determination. If approved, the instalment plan would allow Waititu to pay the fine in manageable chunks. However, if rejected, Waititu may be required to pay the fine in full or face further consequences.

Waititu's case is closely watched due to its implications for corruption and accountability in Kenya. As a former governor, his actions have significant consequences for the public trust. The court's decision on his instalment plan application will be closely monitored. Waititu's penalties serve as a deterrent to other public officials.

The Sh588 million Kiambu County road tender scandal involves Testimony Enterprises and has resulted in significant penalties for Waititu and others involved. The case highlights the need for transparency and accountability in public procurement. Waititu's instalment plan application will have implications for his ability to pay the fine and potentially appeal his conviction.

Key points

• Waititu proposes to pay Sh20 million initially, followed by Sh1 million monthly instalments.
• The fine stems from the Sh588 million Kiambu County road tender scandal.
• Waititu's defence cites his advanced age and ill-health.