‘I have executive powers’: Waititu says he’ll operate from sub-counties

Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu now says he will continue executing his mandate as governor despite the court order barring him from office.

The Kiambu Governor, his wife and eight others were on Monday charged with corruption related charges over a Ksh.588 million irregular tender.

Waititu was released on a Ksh.15 million cash bail and barred from accessing his office until the case is heard and determined.

Speaking on Sunday at Victor’s Assembly Church in Kikuyu, Waititu said he will be operating from different locations within the county, claiming he was only barred from accessing his office in Kiambu town.

“I’m the governor. Executive powers are with me and not in the office or my official vehicle. There is no confusion about that,” said Waititu.

“When I come to Kikuyu, I’ll tell those I need to meet where to meet me. When I go to Limuru, Thika or Kiambu I will tell them where to meet me. County activities must go on. Actually a lot of work to be done is in the sub-counties.”

Waititu further alleges that the corruption charges leveled against him are politically motivated and an attempt to silence him.

“This case brought against me is full of politics. They had to silence me…. But I want to announce that I have agreed to remain silent. Right now I am not politicking anymore. I’m now focusing on development issues so that we can fulfill the pledges we made to the people of Kiambu,” said Waititu.

The embattled Kiambu governor accused his political opponents of propagating falsehoods against him, urging the public to pray for such leaders.

“God is my protector. He is my shield and defender. He is the one who knows how far I’ve come and where I am heading,” said Waititu.

“Kiambu residents pray for our county and the leaders here so that they can be people who tell the truth. Even as they make those claims, let them remember I have a family. The lies you tell today about someone else will also be told about you one day.”

On Saturday, Governor Waititu was out inspecting county projects in Limuru and Kabete, igniting debate on whether he was in contempt of court.

Meanwhile, the council of governors has lined up a team of lawyers to seek a constitutional interpretation of whether governors are part of public officers who should step aside when charged in court.