Family of Steven Munyakho Unaware of Blood Money Payment Despite UDA’s Assurance
Just a day after UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar declared a successful Ksh129.5 million ($1 million) payment by the Muslim World League for Steven Munyakho’s release from a Saudi Arabian death sentence, his family has expressed serious concerns.
They claim they have received no official confirmation of this payment.
The Committee for the Release of Munyakho, in a recent statement, emphasized that they are still awaiting formal communication from relevant authorities.
Despite reaching out for clarification, they have yet to receive any response.
“We are aware of the media reports stating the blood money has been paid,” the committee stated. “However, as of now, we have not received any official notification. We have contacted officials in both Kenya and Saudi Arabia and will update the public as soon as we have confirmed information.”
The committee did express hope that the reported news would be true. “If accurate, this information will be a welcome relief for all those who have supported the Save Stevo Campaign.”
Munyakho was convicted of manslaughter in 2012 following a fatal altercation. The victim’s family appealed the initial sentence, leading to an execution order, which could be commuted by paying Ksh120,750,000 (3.5 million riyals) in blood money. He has spent the last 13 years in Dhaban Prison, Jeddah.
During an Iftar at State House, hosted by President William Ruto, Omar announced that Munyakho would soon be reunited with his family due to successful negotiations involving Saudi Arabia, Kenya, and the Muslim World League.
Omar stated that the negotiations, coordinated at State House, resulted in the $1 million settlement payment. He implied President Ruto’s involvement in the diplomatic efforts.
“Last year, we brought the Secretary-General of the Muslim World League to State House,” Omar said. “Through SUPKEM and the President, we made a passionate plea regarding this case. Both ambassadors have confirmed that the money has been paid, and the Kenyan will return home safely.”
However, the family’s lack of confirmation casts doubt on the immediacy of Munyakho’s release, leaving supporters in a state of anxious anticipation.
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Family of Steven Munyakho Unaware of Blood Money Payment Despite UDA’s Assurance
