Kenya Reaffirms Diaspora Support After Munyakho’s Release
humanitarian assistance by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mudavadi noted that its main duty is to assist—not to condemn—Kenyans in need overseas
Mudavadi was addressing as he welcomed Stephen Munyakho, a Kenyan who spent 14 years on death row in Saudi Arabia before his release after extensive diplomatic negotiations between Nairobi and Riyadh.Photo/ Courtesy
By Juliet Jerotich
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has guaranteed Kenyans overseas the government’s unwavering support for protecting their rights and welfare, affirming that “Kenya will never abandon its people.”
Mudavadi was addressing as he welcomed Stephen Munyakho, a Kenyan who spent 14 years on death row in Saudi Arabia before his release after extensive diplomatic negotiations between Nairobi and Riyadh.
Referring to the work of humanitarian assistance by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mudavadi noted that its main duty is to assist—not to condemn—Kenyans in need overseas:
“When our citizens encounter difficulties elsewhere, it is our responsibility to provide them with all the help,” he said.
The release of Munyakho was the result of ongoing, high-level interventions by the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, the Presidency, and a number of other international partners.
Mudavadi disclosed that upon learning of the death sentence handed to Munyakho, he personally made a plea to Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister for clemency, a move that put on hold the execution initially set on May 15. President William Ruto also intervened by directly speaking to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, setting the stage for diplomatic efforts.
Subsequently, reconciliation was completed after the victim’s family accepted diyya (blood money) of about KSh 129 million, paving the way for Munyakho’s freedom.
“This is a shining example of collective effort,” Mudavadi stated, expressing gratitude to Munyakho’s family, the Kenyan diaspora community, civil society, and the Muslim World League for contributing towards the target amount.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary revealed that about 1,000 Kenyans are currently involved in court cases abroad, assuring the nation that the government is keenly monitoring these incidents via its missions and embassies.
He also commended Munyakho’s family for their resoluteness and resilience throughout the ordeal:
“Your persistence and determination not to lose hope are absolutely nothing short of exceptional,” Mudavadi assured them.
Emotional Munyakho responded from the heart in gratitude:
To the Kenyans who stood with me, donated, and prayed for my release—I can never do enough, but I thank you so much,\” he added.
Joseph Odindo, the chairman of the Bring Stevo Back campaign, addressed them in the same vein of appreciation:
“We appreciate the President, the Prime Cabinet Secretary, and the Muslim community for making it easy for us to acquire this victory.”.
Mudavadi also acknowledged the role of the media in pushing Munyakho’s case and praised the World Muslim League for its substantial financial support:
“We can succeed in this if we unite. We have defeated numerous challenges in the past,” he concluded.
About Author
