Intro:
Stephen Munyakho, the Kenyan man who spent 13 years on death row in Saudi Arabia over a manslaughter conviction, is expected to return home tonight, Monday, July 28. His journey back marks the end of a long and emotional fight for justice and freedom.
Highlights:
- Stephen Munyakho was imprisoned in Saudi Arabia since 2011.
- He faced execution after a manslaughter case was upgraded to murder.
- Kenyan and Islamic leaders helped secure his release through a blood-money settlement.
- He is scheduled to arrive in Nairobi tonight.
Main Story:
Stephen Abdukareem Munyakho’s return to Kenya closes a painful chapter that began in 2011. He was arrested and later convicted of manslaughter following a fatal workplace incident in Saudi Arabia. Over time, his charge was escalated to murder, placing him on death row and sparking fears of imminent execution.
Munyakho’s life was spared after intensive diplomatic efforts by the Kenyan government, the Muslim World League, and the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (Supkem). Through months of negotiation, the victim’s family agreed to forgive Munyakho in exchange for a reduced blood-money settlement reportedly around $1 million (KSh 129 million).
Following his release, Munyakho performed Umrah in Makkah before being transferred to a deportation centre. The Kenyan Embassy issued him an emergency travel document to facilitate his return, as his passport had expired during his time in prison
According to officials, Munyakho is scheduled to arrive in Nairobi on the night of Monday, July 28. His family, supporters, and faith leaders have expressed joy and relief, saying his return symbolizes resilience and the power of collective advocacy.
As Stephen Munyakho steps back onto Kenyan soil, his return is more than just a homecoming it’s a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments, hope and humanity can prevail.
