In a powerful testament to the strength of diplomacy, unity, and faith, Kenyan national Mr. Stephen Munyakho, who had been sentenced to death in Saudi Arabia for manslaughter, is expected to arrive home tonight following a successful clemency campaign.
Mr. Munyakho will land at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) at 11:00 p.m. aboard a flight from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
His return marks the end of a high-profile case that captured the nation’s attention and mobilized a countrywide humanitarian and diplomatic response.
His release was made possible after the family of the deceased Saudi national accepted diyya (blood money) amounting to Sh 129 million, paving the way for the deferral and eventual revocation of the death sentence imposed last year.
In a statement issued Monday by the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary (PCS) and Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, H.E. Musalia Mudavadi extended heartfelt gratitude to all Kenyans and institutions whose collective efforts secured Mr. Munyakho’s freedom.
“The Government of Kenya, through sustained diplomatic efforts, has stood firmly in defense of the life and rights of our citizen.
I extend my sincere appreciation to every Kenyan who contributed whether financially or through prayer to this cause,” said Dr. Mudavadi.
Following the sentencing, PCS Mudavadi took swift action by officially writing to the Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, requesting a stay of execution to allow for diplomatic intervention.
He also thanked President William Ruto, who personally intervened by speaking directly with His Royal Highness Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, ruler of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to appeal for clemency.
Among those singled out for their immense support were the Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), the Kenyan Muslim Community, the Muslim World League, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops, and millions of ordinary Kenyans, whose generous contributions helped raise the required blood money.
Dr. Mudavadi further praised the Government of Saudi Arabia for its openness to engage diplomatically, calling it a reflection of the deep and friendly relationship between Nairobi and Riyadh.
He also acknowledged the tireless efforts of Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei, the “Bring Back Stevo” campaign strategy committee chaired by Joseph Odindo, and Mr. Munyakho’s family, led by his resilient mother, Dorothy Kweyu, for their unwavering determination throughout the ordeal.
“This case reaffirms the commitment of the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs to the protection and welfare of Kenyans abroad,” Dr. Mudavadi stated.
“We will continue to advocate for the dignity, rights, and well-being of every Kenyan, wherever they are in the world.”
As Kenya prepares to welcome Mr. Munyakho home, the nation celebrates a rare and emotional victory one shaped by diplomacy, solidarity, and compassion.
It is a reminder of what is possible when a nation unites in the face of adversity.
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