NAIROBI, Kenya – A Kenyan man who had been on death row in Saudi Arabia is expected to return home following months of high-level diplomatic negotiations that led to his release.
Stephen Munyakho, who had been sentenced to death for manslaughter, was released from prison after the family of the deceased accepted blood money (diyya) totaling approximately KSh129 million.
His release marks the culmination of intensive negotiations between Kenyan and Saudi officials.
According to a statement from the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary and the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Munyakho’s return could happen as early as today, pending final clearance by Saudi authorities.
The diplomatic intervention was spearheaded by President William Ruto, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, Principal Secretary Dr. Korir Sing’oei, and staff from Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.
“Mr. Munyakho’s release is the result of months of sustained diplomatic engagement between Nairobi and Riyadh, underscoring Kenya’s commitment to protect the rights and dignity of its citizens abroad,” the statement read.
In July 2024, Mudavadi informed the Senate that the government had stepped in to prevent the execution.
He confirmed that he had officially written to Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister to request clemency for Munyakho, which led to the postponement of the execution originally scheduled for May 15.
President Ruto also personally engaged with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to seek a delay in the execution, allowing time for negotiations with the victim’s family.
In Kenya, Munyakho’s family struggled to raise the amount demanded, prompting government officials to negotiate for a reduction in the compensation.
Following his release on Tuesday, Munyakho was allowed to perform Umrah (a minor pilgrimage) at the request of the Kenyan Embassy before being moved to a deportation center.
The Saudi government has agreed to cover the full cost of his deportation, and an Emergency Travel Document has already been issued, as his passport had expired during his incarceration.
Foreign Affairs CS Mudavadi expressed joy at Munyakho’s impending return and praised the collaborative efforts that secured his freedom.
“This case demonstrates the importance of strong diplomatic ties and the government’s unwavering support for Kenyans abroad,” Mudavadi said.
The government promised to announce Munyakho’s flight details as soon as they are confirmed.
