After spending over a decade behind bars and narrowly escaping execution in a Saudi Arabian prison, Stephen Munyakho—now known as Abdulkareem—finally set foot on Kenyan soil again. His homecoming, marked by deep emotions, prayers, and tears, has left the nation inspired and reflective.
From Death Row to Freedom
Stephen Munyakho’s journey began in 2011 when a confrontation in Saudi Arabia led to a manslaughter conviction. Though he maintained that it was accidental and acted in self-defense, the Saudi court sentenced him to death under Sharia law.
For years, Munyakho languished in a Saudi prison, facing the grim reality of capital punishment. But his fate took a hopeful turn when the family of the deceased agreed to accept diyya (blood money), opening the door for his potential release.
Kenya Unites to Save One of Its Own
Munyakho’s release didn’t come easy. The amount needed to save his life was staggering—Ksh 129 million (around $1 million). That’s when Kenyans, both at home and abroad, came together under the now-viral hashtag #BringBackStevo.
A powerful collaboration between the Kenyan government, diaspora communities, and Muslim humanitarian organizations helped raise the funds. Key among them was the Muslim World League, which made a significant contribution to help secure his freedom.
Diplomatic negotiations led by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with support from Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and PS Dr. Korir Sing’oei, ensured every detail was carefully handled. For many, it was a beautiful example of what collective action, unity, and diplomacy can achieve.
An Emotional Arrival at JKIA
Stephen Munyakho arrived in Kenya shortly before midnight on July 29, 2025, aboard a flight from Jeddah. As he walked through the arrival gates of Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, he was welcomed with tears, hugs, and chants from family, friends, and supporters.
Wearing a white robe and visibly moved, Munyakho is seen tightly embracing his aging parents. Many held banners and wore T-shirts printed with the words “Welcome Home Abdulkareem”. While others read #BringBackStevo, a campaign that now feels like a success story for the ages.
His First Words: A Thankful Heart
Although exhausted, Munyakho offered a few heartfelt words to the media and those who gathered to welcome him. https://youtu.be/vv18Pu_M4Ow
“I am grateful to God, and I thank everyone who believed in me. This moment is more than I ever imagined. I just need some rest now.”
He also mentioned his desire to take some quiet time to reflect and recover before sharing more about his long and painful experience.
A Symbol of Hope
Stephen’s release has become a symbol of resilience, hope, and the power of human compassion. For many Kenyans, it is a reminder that even when systems fail or seem distant, unity and advocacy can move mountains.
His return also reignites conversations around the safety of migrant workers. Further, their legal protections abroad, and the emotional toll families endure when loved ones are caught up in foreign legal systems.
As Stephen Munyakho begins to rebuild his life, Kenya watches with support and admiration. What could have ended in tragedy has become a powerful story of redemption.
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