Kenyan Man Freed After Spending A Decade On Saudi Death Row

After over ten years on death row in Saudi Arabia, Kenyan national Stephen Abdukareem Munyakho has finally returned home, following a complex and deeply emotional legal and diplomatic journey. Munyakho, who had been sentenced to death in 2013 for the alleged murder of a Yemeni colleague, was granted his freedom after a $1 million blood money (diya) payment was facilitated by the Muslim World League, allowing his release under Islamic law.

His case had long captured the attention of human rights advocates, legal experts, and the Kenyan public. From the outset, Munyakho maintained that the act was one of self-defense, a stance echoed by his family and supporters throughout the years.

In 2014, a Saudi court recognized some mitigating circumstances and downgraded the severity of the charge. However, the death sentence was upheld pending either clemency or a diya agreement with the victim’s family.
A key figure in the fight for his release was Munyakho’s mother, Dorothy Kweyu, whose tireless advocacy and emotional appeals kept the case in the public spotlight and mobilized widespread support. Over the years, she worked closely with government officials, faith leaders, and humanitarian organizations to seek justice for her son.

Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs played a critical role in the eventual outcome. Through sustained diplomatic engagement with Saudi authorities, the ministry successfully negotiated two postponements of Munyakho’s execution in 2024. These reprieves bought crucial time for continued appeals and for securing the blood money settlement.

The final breakthrough was publicly acknowledged in March during an Iftar dinner at State House in Nairobi, where the Muslim World League’s role in brokering the diya was formally recognized. Shortly after his release, Munyakho performed Umrah, a minor Islamic pilgrimage, as an expression of gratitude and spiritual renewal.

Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei confirmed the development, describing it as a powerful example of diplomacy, faith, and perseverance working hand in hand. “This is a deeply human story that reminds us of the value of second chances, and of the power of communities, nations, and families coming together to uphold justice and mercy,” he said.

Now back in Kenya, Munyakho’s return marks the end of a decade-long ordeal and the beginning of a new chapter. His case also serves as a reminder of the complex legal challenges faced by migrant workers abroad and the importance of sustained diplomatic protection for nationals in distress.