Former Kiambu Governor Ferdinand Waititu has made headlines once again, this time for an unexpected reason—he has enrolled for Form 4 studies at Industrial Area Prison and is set to register for the KCSE 2025 exams. This shocking move comes after his corruption conviction, which led to his 12-year jail sentence over the irregular awarding of a KSh 588 million tender during his tenure as governor.
His decision to return to school raises several questions: Is he genuinely seeking education, or is this part of a larger strategy?
Waititu’s Legal Troubles and Conviction
Waititu’s downfall began when the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission (EACC) launched investigations into the illegal awarding of contracts during his time as Kiambu Governor. He was found guilty of receiving KSh 25.6 million in kickbacks through his company, while his wife also benefited from the proceeds.
In early 2025, the Anti-Corruption Court sentenced him to 12 years in prison, with an option of a KSh 53.5 million fine. His wife received a one-year jail term or a KSh 500,000 fine. Additionally, they were barred from holding public office for 10 years.
With his political career in limbo, Waititu is now focusing on education—an unexpected turn for a former governor.
From Political Leadership to the Classroom
At Industrial Area Prison, Waititu has joined other inmates in Form 4 studies as he prepares to sit for the KCSE 2025 exams. His registration will be done through the KNEC portal (www.knec.ac.ke), where all KCSE candidates, including inmates, are listed.
KNEC Registration and KCSE 2025 Exams
As an adult student, Waititu will be required to register through the KNEC CP2 portal, which manages teacher and candidate registration. The KCSE results for inmates are usually released at the same time as those for other candidates and can be accessed via the KNEC website (www.knec.ac.ke/kcse-results).
His situation raises awareness of the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) policies that allow prisoners to access education and sit for national exams, just like ordinary candidates.
Education in Kenyan Prisons: A Second Chance?
Waititu’s case highlights the role of education in rehabilitation within Kenyan prisons. The Competency-Based Assessment (CBA) program under KNEC CBA portal provides inmates with learning opportunities, and prison teachers are deployed through the KNEC CP2 system.
Through platforms like the KNEC examiners portal login, officials ensure that inmates receive proper assessment before sitting for their KCSE exams. Those who qualify can later enroll in post-secondary institutions or technical training programs upon their release.
JSS and KPSEA: The New Face of Kenya’s Education System
While Waititu is focused on KCSE 2025, Kenya’s education sector is evolving with the introduction of the Junior Secondary School (JSS) system. Under the KNEC JSS portal, students and teachers can access learning resources and register for JSS exams.
For parents and guardians looking for JSS near me, the Ministry of Education has provided a list of institutions offering JSS programs. Many JSS teachers have also been deployed through the JSS nemis portal, ensuring a smooth transition for learners.
Similarly, candidates preparing for the Kenya Primary School Education Assessment (KPSEA) can check their KPSEA results release date via the KPSEA portal. Those looking for KPSEA 2024 exam papers PDF and KPSEA attendance register can access them through the official KNEC portal login.
Abandoned by Political Allies
As Waititu embarks on this new educational journey, one thing remains clear—he is alone. His former political allies have abandoned him, signaling the unpredictability of Kenyan politics. The same people who once campaigned with him have now distanced themselves, highlighting the harsh realities of power and influence.
Final Thoughts: Redemption or Political Strategy?
Whether Waititu’s decision to enroll for KCSE 2025 is a genuine pursuit of education or a tactical move to rebuild his image, only time will tell. His story, however, serves as a lesson on the importance of second chances, whether through education or personal transformation.
As he sits for his exams, his KCSE results will be eagerly awaited—not just as a measure of academic success, but as a symbol of his resilience in the face of adversity.
