By Kennedy Nalyanya
Stephen Munyakho, the Kenyan man who was facing a death sentence in Saudi Arabia, is finally free thanks to a staggering Ksh 129 million payout from the influential Muslim World League.
The international Islamic Non-Governmental Organisation, based in the holy city of Mecca, swooped in to save Munyakho – now known as Abdulkareem – from execution after he was convicted of murdering a Yemeni colleague in 2011. The crime carries the death penalty, but after protracted negotiations, the victim's family agreed to accept blood money.. This dramatic intervention comes after years of diplomatic efforts and a desperate plea to religious leaders.
Munyakho, who was jailed in Shimeisi Prison in the Governorate of Mecca, walked free at 10 a.m. local time on Tuesday. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei confirmed the incredible news, stating that "Steve performed his Umra (minor pilgrimage) upon release," a powerful symbol of his new beginning.
Munyakho was just months away from execution last May when Kenyan authorities and religious figures stepped in, halting the grim proceedings.
The breakthrough came when President William Ruto reportedly appealed directly to Muhammad Al-Issa, the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League, during his visit to Kenya. UDA party Secretary-General Hassan Omar revealed the stunning development, confirming that the League footed the massive $1 million (Ksh 129 million) settlement that secured Munyakho's freedom.
Munyakho's release isn't just a triumph of diplomacy; it's a testament to the solidarity promoted by the Muslim World League, which champions moderate Islamic values. The League's intervention highlights their global reach and commitment to justice.
Details of Munyakho's arrival back in Kenya are expected soon, with PS Sing’oei commending "all who have offered their support towards securing this outcome." After years of fearing the blade, Stephen Munyakho, alias Stevo, can finally look forward to a new life, a life made possible by an extraordinary act of faith and a colossal payout from the Muslim World League.
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