Ferdinand Waititu: The Story Behind Baba Stick
If you hear the name Ferdinand Waititu in Kenya, chances are you’ll hear the nickname “Baba Stick” attached to it. He’s the guy who went from a businessman in Nairobi’s Eastlands to a heavyweight in Kenyan politics, and his path has been anything but smooth.
How Waititu Jumped Into Politics
Waititu grew up in the slums of Embakasi, so he knows what it feels like to struggle for a roof over your head. He turned that experience into a political pitch, promising to clean up roads, provide water, and bring jobs. In 2017, he won the Nairobi County Governorship, beating a well‑known rival with a promise to fix the city’s mess.
His campaign was all about flashy slogans and plenty of promises. He put together a team of young, outspoken supporters who loved the idea of a “new face” in Nairobi politics. That energy helped him pull off a surprise victory, and suddenly Baba Stick was the governor of Kenya’s most important county.
Scandals, Court Cases, and Public Outcry
But the governor’s tenure quickly turned chaotic. Accusations of corruption, illegal land deals, and intimidation piled up. In 2019, a court ordered him to step down because of alleged irregularities in the 2017 election. He fought the ruling, but the legal battle dragged on for months, leaving Nairobi’s residents unsure who was really in charge.
One of the biggest flashpoints was his alleged involvement in the “embakasi stone crush” incident, where protesters claimed his security forces used excessive force. The incident sparked national debate about the limits of political power and the safety of ordinary Kenyans.
Even after the court ordered his removal, Waititu kept showing up at official events, insisting he was still the legitimate governor. That defiance only added fuel to the fire, with many Kenyans taking to social media to label him a “political bully.”
In 2022, he faced another court case over a large cash seizure that authorities said came from bribery. While the case is still ongoing, it shows a pattern: every time Waititu makes a move, the legal system seems to catch up.
What’s Next for Baba Stick?
Despite the controversies, Waititu still has a solid base of supporters who believe he can still turn Nairobi around. He’s been hinting at a comeback, possibly aiming for a parliamentary seat or even a cabinet post. His supporters argue that his business background gives him the chops to manage large projects, while critics say his track record proves he can’t be trusted with public money.
For anyone watching Kenyan politics, Waititu’s story is a reminder that charisma alone can’t replace transparency and accountability. If you’re trying to decide whether to back him in the next election, look at both his promised projects and the legal baggage that follows him.
Bottom line: Ferdinand Waititu is a polarising figure who moves the political needle every time he steps into the spotlight. Whether you see him as a reformer or a repeat offender, his name will keep appearing in Kenya’s headlines.
