The High Court has denied former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu’s request for bail pending his appeal against a 12-year prison sentence for corruption-related charges. Justice Lucy Njuguna ruled that Waititu failed to demonstrate sufficient grounds for his release, stating that his appeal does not have high chances of success, and his health condition does not warrant special consideration.

Waititu, who has been incarcerated since his conviction, had sought bail on medical grounds, citing severe hypertension that requires urgent care. He also contended that his appeal had merit and should be heard while he is out on bond. However, the Director of Public Prosecutions opposed the bail application, arguing that Waititu should serve his sentence while pursuing the appeal.

In February 2025, Waititu was convicted for receiving kickbacks amounting to Sh25.6 million from a contractor involved in a Sh588 million road tender in Kiambu County. He was given the option to pay a fine of Sh53.7 million or serve a 12-year prison term. His wife, Susan Wangari, paid the fine and was released, while Waititu and his co-convicts remain in custody.

Waititu has filed an appeal challenging his conviction, citing several grounds, including alleged errors in the trial court’s judgment and the claim that the prosecution failed to meet the required standard of proof. The appeal is currently pending before the High Court.