Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu faces further proceedings in the KSh588 million corruption case.
The defence challenges mitigation proceedings for Ferdinand Waititu, his wife and their co-accused following a High Court ruling in the KSh588 million graft case.
Waititu sentencing proceedings remain on hold as the court prepares to give directions on October 22. The next step concerns former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, his wife Sarah Wangare and their co-accused in the KSh588 million corruption case.
The accused appeared before Anti-Corruption Magistrate Harrison Barasa on Monday, but the defence challenged the commencement of mitigation and sentencing. Barasa then set Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 9am for further directions.
Defence challenges Waititu sentencing proceedings
The defence argued that the trial court had acquitted the accused and therefore had no convictions warranting the proceedings. However, the prosecution disputed that position, citing the High Court’s decision on the State’s application.
Prosecutor Monda maintained that the High Court had allowed the application in full. He also said it had directed the accused to appear before the magistrate’s court for mitigation.
In addition, Monda argued that the court should treat the accused in their corporate capacity rather than as individuals. He warned that accepting the defence’s position would lead to an improper approach to the proceedings.
After hearing both sides, Barasa deferred further directions until October 22. The court did not proceed with mitigation and sentencing during Monday’s appearance.
Prosecution opposes Wangare’s release
Meanwhile, the defence sought Wangare’s release pending the court’s directions. The prosecution opposed the application, arguing that she was a convicted person.
Monda cited the seriousness of the money-laundering offence, which he said carries a KSh25 million penalty. On that basis, he opposed her release on bail or bond before mitigation.
The prosecution also asked the court to order Charles Ngugi to appear. That request formed part of the arguments as the court considered the next steps following the High Court ruling.
High Court ruling sets up further proceedings
Justice Rose Ougo delivered the ruling last Wednesday, upholding convictions against Waititu, Wangare and their co-accused on several charges. However, she overturned the trial court’s acquittal on money-laundering charges.
That decision brought the case back before the magistrate’s court for further proceedings. The October 22 session is for directions on mitigation and sentencing, rather than a confirmed sentencing date.
