The High Court has once again denied former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu bail pending the determination of his appeal in a Ksh588 million corruption case, delivering another legal blow to the embattled politician.

Justice Lucy Njuguna ruled against a second application filed by Waititu and two co-accused persons, citing insufficient grounds to warrant their release as the appeal is still under judicial consideration.

“The applicants have not presented new or compelling reasons that would justify a review of the earlier decision,” stated Justice Njuguna during the Thursday morning session. “Bail is not an automatic right once a conviction has occurred, especially in cases involving serious economic crimes.”

Waititu, who served as Kiambu governor from 2017 to 2020, was convicted alongside his wife and a county official over the alleged irregular award of a Ksh588 million road tender. The three were accused of conflict of interest, abuse of office and laundering proceeds from public funds.

His legal team argued that the former governor poses no flight risk and has consistently complied with court processes. “Our client is a public figure with deep roots in the community. Continued incarceration serves no justice,” said lead defense counsel, adding they were hopeful for reprieve at the appellate level.

But the prosecution maintained a hard line. “This is a high-profile graft case. Releasing the convicts before the appeal is determined would undermine public confidence in the war against corruption,” said state counsel Mercy Mungai.

The ruling means Waititu and the co-accused will remain in custody as they await the outcome of their appeal, which is expected to be heard later this year.

The case continues to draw public attention, seen by many as a test of Kenya’s commitment to fighting high-level corruption.

Written by, Linah Towett