Stephen Munyakho, a Kenyan national who was on death row in Saudi Arabia, has arrived in Nairobi after his release.
Munyakho was welcomed by Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei, alongside his parents and members of the special committee that coordinated efforts to secure his release.
He landed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on July 29, 2025 at 12:50 a.m., where he was received by his family, friends, and government officials.
There were scenes of joy as family members embraced him while ululating, dancing and singing.
Some shed tears, while others sang in celebration.
His return comes after President William Ruto intervened by speaking directly with Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, ruler of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, requesting a delay in the execution as Kenya pursued the matter diplomatically.
Munyakho had been sentenced to death in 2023, but the sentence was lifted after the family of the deceased accepted diya (Ksh129 million), commonly known as blood money.
