The fate of former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu's vast, contested fortune now rests in the hands of the High Court, with a landmark judgment scheduled for Friday, December 19, 2025.

This decision could redefine how Kenya pursues the recovery of allegedly stolen public funds, setting a powerful precedent for high-profile corruption cases. At stake is not just the wealth of one politician, but the very effectiveness of the nation's fight against graft—a battle to reclaim resources that could otherwise fund critical public services.

A Fortune Under Scrutiny

The Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) filed the suit three years ago, alleging that Mr. Waititu amassed assets worth KES 1.94 billion that are disproportionate to his known legitimate income. The period under investigation covers his tenure as Kabete MP (2015-2017) and Kiambu Governor (2017-2020).

The EACC contends that Waititu's legitimate earnings over this five-year period amounted to approximately KES 110 million, a fraction of the wealth he accumulated. The commission alleges the former governor abused his position of trust, using fictitious and fraudulent procurement contracts to embezzle public funds. These funds were allegedly channeled as kickbacks to him, his wife Susan Wangari, and their companies.

The portfolio of assets the EACC seeks to seize is extensive and includes:

• High-value commercial buildings in Nairobi's CBD, such as the Jamii Bora Building, Delta Hotel, and Biashara Shopping Mall.
• Residential properties in upmarket suburbs like Runda, Migaa, and Thindigua.
• At least five luxury motor vehicles.
• Approximately KES 804.6 million held in various bank accounts.

A Verdict Long Awaited

The delivery of the judgment has been postponed twice due to the failure of Mr. Waititu and his co-defendants to appear in court. High Court Judge Nixon Sifuna has now issued a stern directive compelling their personal attendance, warning that the verdict will be delivered on Friday without fail. Mr. Waititu has consistently denied the allegations, maintaining that his assets were acquired lawfully through business income and bank loans.

This asset recovery case is separate from another corruption case that saw Waititu convicted in February 2025 over a KES 588 million irregular tender. He is currently serving a jail term related to that conviction.

The nation now watches closely. The High Court's decision on Friday will not only determine the fate of a political dynasty's fortune but will also send a powerful signal about accountability and the rule of law in Kenya's public sphere.