It is a major reprieve for former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu after the High Court varied his bail terms pending the hearing and determination of his appeal.
In a ruling delivered on Wednesday, Justice Winfrida Okwany allowed the application for review and significantly reduced the earlier bail conditions.
The court set bail at Sh20 million in cash, or alternatively, two sureties each with property securities valued at not less than Sh30 million, subject to verification and approval by the Deputy Registrar.
As part of the revised conditions, Waititu has also been directed to deposit his passport in court pending the hearing and determination of his appeal.
Waititu is appealing his conviction and sentence in a Sh588 million graft case linked to irregular award of road tenders during his tenure as Kiambu Governor. In February 2025, the trial court found him guilty of corruption-related offences and sentenced him to 12 years in prison or a fine of Sh53.5 million, and barred him from holding public office for a period of ten years.
His lawyers had argued that the earlier bail terms — which included a hefty bank guarantee — were excessive and effectively denied him the opportunity to pursue his appeal while out on bond. The prosecution opposed the application, maintaining that the original conditions were lawful and justified.
In allowing the review, the High Court maintained strict safeguards, including surrender of travel documents and verification of sureties, but lowered the financial threshold — a move seen as a significant relief for the former county boss as he continues to challenge his conviction.
The appeal is now expected to proceed under the revised bail terms.
