In a dramatic appeal to the nation, the government has called on citizens to rally together and contribute funds to save Stephen Munyakho, a Kenyan man facing execution in Saudi Arabia.
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, addressing the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Defence, Intelligence, and Foreign Relations, revealed the dire financial straits of the government. “Under the prevailing circumstances, Kenya has no money to secure Munyakho’s release,” Mudavadi admitted solemnly.
Munyakho, who was scheduled for execution on May 15, has languished in Saudi prisons for over 13 years. His family is in a desperate race against time to raise the staggering Sh150 million required as compensation. This sum, known as ‘blood money’ under Shariah law, must be paid to halt the execution and secure Munyakho’s freedom.
The 50-year-old Munyakho was convicted of murdering his colleague, Abdul Halim Saleh, following a heated altercation at work in 2011. Initially sentenced for manslaughter, Munyakho’s charges were later upgraded to murder after an appeal by the deceased’s family in a Shariah Court, resulting in a death sentence.
Munyakho’s plight has sparked a wave of concern and urgency among Kenyans. His family, driven by hope and desperation, has been working tirelessly to gather the necessary funds. This public call for donations is their last lifeline.
“This is a critical moment for Stephen and his family,” Mudavadi stated. “We urge every Kenyan, every friend of Kenya, to come forward and help. Together, we can save a life.”
As the clock ticks down, the nation’s attention turns to the collective effort needed to bring Munyakho back home. The story of a man’s fate hanging in the balance now rests in the hands of ordinary citizens, united in the mission to prevent a tragic ending.
