Execution Deadline For Kenyan Detained In Saudi Arabia Extended by 4 Months
The deadline for the Kenyan imprisoned in Saudi Arabia has been extended by four months, as announced by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei. Stephen (Stevo) Munyakho now has until November 26, 2024, to collect the required compensation, following government intervention to extend the original deadline from July 26, 2024.
Sing’oei urged Kenyans to contribute towards raising the necessary funds to secure Munyakho’s release, highlighting the goal of gathering 3.5 million Saudi Riyals (approximately Sh120 million at current exchange rates).
Assuring ongoing efforts, Sing’oei noted that the government remains actively engaged in resolving the complex situation involving Munyakho, collaborating closely with his family. A consolidated assessment of fundraising efforts is scheduled for the week starting July 8, 2024.
Acknowledging the efforts of the Kenya Mission in Riyadh, Sing’oei praised their dedicated approach to engaging Saudi authorities and the victim’s family. He reaffirmed the commitment to pursuing all available diplomatic channels to bring Munyakho back to Kenya.
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Described by his mother as gentle and peaceful throughout his life, Munyakho was involved in a fatal altercation with a Yemeni colleague at their workplace on April 9, 2011. The incident led to his conviction for manslaughter initially, later overturned and enhanced to murder under Shariah law in June 2014.
Due to Shariah law stipulations, Munyakho faced the possibility of execution, which was postponed as one of the victim’s sons was a minor at the time and needed to reach adulthood to provide consent.
Initially set for May 13, the execution date was postponed following diplomatic efforts. Subsequent negotiations in 2019 resulted in an agreement for blood money, initially set at 10 million riyals and later reduced to 3.5 million riyals last November (over Sh120 million), which must be raised to secure Munyakho’s release.
To facilitate contributions, the family provided a pay bill number 8056675 and an account number under the contributor’s name, with direct donation options through Dorothy Musopole at 0702878717.
Execution Deadline For Kenyan Detained In Saudi Arabia Extended by 4 Months
