Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, also known as ‘Baba Yao,’ has asked anti corruption court to acquit him of all charges in a Kes.588 million corruption case.
Waititu made his case before trial Magistrate Thomas Nzyuki, alleging that the charges against him are politically motivated, stemming from his steadfast support for President William Ruto during the 2022 succession politics.
Waititu’s legal battle traces back to 2020 when he faced impeachment following a motion tabled by former Ndenderu MCA Solomon Kinuthia.
The charges included abuse of office and involvement in corrupt dealings. Sixty-three members of the Kiambu County Assembly voted for his removal, while 28 members abstained from the proceedings.
Subsequently, the Senate sanctioned his impeachment.
The former governor argues that his unwavering loyalty to Ruto led to his arrest and subsequent prosecution, asserting that the corruption allegations were concocted to oust him from office.
He labeled the case as a political witch hunt, emphasizing its coordination to force him out.
Waititu also pointed out the withdrawal of several corruption cases by former Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Noordin Haji, allegedly due to misleading information from then Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) George Kinoti.
He highlighted political pressures as influential factors in shaping corruption cases during the former regime.
The focal point of Waititu’s legal struggle revolves around irregularities in awarding a Kes.588,198,328.20 road tender in Kiambu County in 2019.
The prosecution concluded its case last year after presenting 32 witnesses and substantial documentary evidence.
The proceedings are set to resume today for further examination.
Despite the accusations and legal hurdles, Waititu maintains his innocence, urging the court to consider the broader political landscape and the influence of powerful entities on corruption cases during his tenure.
