Family, friends, and government officials gathered at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport on Monday night to welcome Stephen Munyakho, now known as Abdulkareem, after spending 14 years behind bars in Saudi Arabia. His return marked the end of a painful and emotional journey that had kept his loved ones waiting for over a decade.
Why Was Stephen Munyakho Arrested?
In April 2011, Munyakho was working as a warehouse manager in Saudi Arabia when he got into a violent altercation with a Yemeni colleague. The colleague later died from the injuries sustained in the fight. Initially, Munyakho was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to five years in prison. However, after an appeal, the charge was elevated to murder, and he was sentenced to death by beheading.
His situation changed when the victim’s family agreed to accept diyya, a form of financial compensation under Islamic law. This opened the door for diplomatic intervention and fundraising efforts that would ultimately save Munyakho’s life.
How Did the Kenyan Government Help?
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi played a key role in seeking clemency for Munyakho. He wrote directly to the Saudi Foreign Minister, urging leniency in the case. With support from the Muslim World League and the Kenyan government, Ksh129 million was raised earlier this year to settle the blood money demand.
Following the payment, Munyakho was released on July 22, 2025. Before returning to Kenya, he performed Umrah and was moved from Shimeisi Prison in Mecca to a deportation centre for final processing.
The moment Munyakho landed at JKIA was described by his family as a miracle. After 14 years of uncertainty, fear, and tireless advocacy, they finally embraced their son and brother once again. His story, which had captured national attention, now finds its closure, not with tragedy, but with hope and renewed life.
By Risper Akinyi
