Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Dr. Korir Sing’Oei has hailed the return of Stephen Munyakho from Saudi Arabia as the most symbolic case the Kenyan government has ever handled, terming it an “impossible situation” that was made possible through perseverance, faith, and unity.
Speaking at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) where he joined other officials in receiving Munyakho, PS Sing’Oei emphasized that the case stands as a testament to Kenya’s dedication to defending its citizens abroad, regardless of the circumstances.
“This case is one of several others where the Kenyan government has demonstrated it is willing, ready, and able to defend its citizens,” Sing’Oei said. “But Stephen’s case is the most emblematic. It looked completely impossible, yet through the persistence of his mother, the prayers of Kenyans, and our unity of purpose, we are here today.”
Munyakho, who had been working as a warehouse manager in Saudi Arabia, was arrested in 2011 after a fatal dispute with his Yemeni colleague. Initially convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to five years, his case was later escalated to a murder conviction under Sharia law, carrying a death sentence. However, following years of legal negotiations and the acceptance of diya (blood money) by the victim’s family, the sentence was suspended.
His release on July 22, 2025, marked the end of a 14-year ordeal. He was accompanied back home by Kenya’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Mohammed Ruwange.
Speaking briefly after his arrival, Munyakho expressed gratitude for the second chance at life and thanked Allah, his family, the government, and all Kenyans who supported him through prayers and encouragement.
“I’m glad to be back home in Kenya. My presence here today is nothing short of a miracle,” he said. “Please allow me some time to rest and reorganize myself before I can speak further.”
Munyakho’s return serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of diplomatic intervention, persistence, and collective support in ensuring the welfare of Kenyans in distress abroad.
