Kenyan Man freed from Saudi Death Row
Stephen Munyakho, a Kenyan man who faced a death sentence in Saudi Arabia for manslaughter, is set to arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) tonight at 11 p.m. on Monday, July 28.
A press release from Musalia Mudavadi, the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, revealed that Munyakho’s release came about after the family of the victim agreed to accept diyya (blood money) totaling around KSh 129 million.
This financial settlement allowed for the postponement of his death sentence and ultimately led to his release.
“A combination of sustained diplomatic efforts by the Government of Kenya, philanthropic contributions from Kenyans, and their prayers bore fruit,” the statement read in part.
“PCS thanked President William Ruto, who intervened by speaking directly with Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, as Kenya pursued the matter diplomatically,” the statement noted.
Mudavadi also praised Foreign Affairs PS Korir Sing’oei and the “Bring Back Stevo Campaign” committee led by Joseph Odindo for their tireless advocacy and coordination.
“The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs is committed to safeguarding the rights and welfare of Kenyans abroad,” they affirmed.
Stephen Munyakho had been incarcerated at Shimeisi Prison in Saudi Arabia since April 9, 2011, after a tragic workplace incident that led to the death of a coworker.
In 2013, he was found guilty of manslaughter and given a five-year sentence. However, the family of the deceased contested the ruling, which resulted in a death sentence.
After extensive negotiations between the two countries, and a temporary halt to the execution in 2024, the Kenyan government managed to secure his release by meeting the blood money requirement in March 2025.
Kenyan Man freed from Saudi Death Row
