This archive report was first published on 1 August 2019.
August 1, 2019, marked a significant turn of events for Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu, who found himself behind bars at the Industrial Area remand prison.
According to sources, Waititu, who was housed in block E, just a few meters away from the facility's canteen, has been enjoying the services of his fellow inmates, who have taken it upon themselves to spread his bed, collect his food from the canteen, and perform other general duties.
Ordinarily, no foodstuff is allowed from outside the prison, meaning that Waititu, like any other inmate, is forced to eat the food served at the facility or purchase quick bites from the canteen, which operates with limited hours.
Despite the limited options, the food served at the canteen ranges from bread, milk, avocado, biscuits, bananas, and mineral water, which have become a staple for Waititu and his fellow inmates.
It is alleged that those aiding Waititu inside the prison are hopeful that he will consider settling their cash bails when he is released.
However, at night, Waititu reportedly struggles to sleep, and according to sources, he has been cursing his links with some of the 'tangatanga' politicians and the chairman of the Council of Governors, Wycliffe Oparanya, who has failed to mobilize other governors to visit him in solidarity.
Waititu's high-profile treatment has earned him a designated sleeping area, nicknamed 'State House,' which is a far cry from the filthy corridor dubbed 'Mathare' where new inmates are forced to spend their nights.
While he is exempt from the normal squatting, Waititu has to pay a fee to the greedy prison warders, who are taking advantage of his privileged status.
