Jailed Ex-Governor Ferdinand Waititu First Spotted in Prison

Former governor Ferdinand Waititu “Baba Yao,” who is now serving a 12-year jail term, has for the first time been spotted in prison, donned in full prison uniforms. The former Kiambu governor looked miserable and deserted in the new pictures, sounding a harsh reality check to politicians with traces of graft.

Baba Yao was sentenced earlier this year after being found guilty of corruption-related charges, including abuse of office and procurement irregularities during his tenure as governor. His conviction marked a significant milestone in Kenya’s fight against graft, with authorities emphasizing accountability among public officials.

Although he was given the option of a fine to secure his freedom, the 53 million became a little too costly to raise, even with his intricate connections to power and money. The once powerful county chief now wallows in prison, suffering in isolation from his former political friends. His inability to pay the fine underscored the stark contrast between his former status and his current predicament—once a governor commanding vast resources, now a prisoner grappling with the harsh reality of incarceration.

The former governor had previously filed an appeal seeking to overturn his conviction, arguing that due process was not followed during his trial. Subsequent attempts to save himself through bail were also met with brute rejection from the courts. A fresh appeal by the convicted governor is now pending in court.