It is difficult to define "grief-stricken" unless you have been in a situation that warranted such a feeling.
On April 12, 2011, veteran journalist Dorothy Kweyu Musopole experienced exactly that, and unfortunately, the situation hasn't changed- 13 years later.
Kweyu was going about her morning when she received a phone call that would devastate her – her son; Stephen Bertrand Munyakho had been involved in a fatal altercation in Saudi Arabia.
Munyakho better known as Stevo to his family and friends, had been involved in an argument which turned violent with his friend and colleague Abdul Halim Mujahid Makrad Saleh.
In the altercation involving a letter opener, Saleh was stabbed and wounded. He managed to get to the hospital where he later succumbed.
Stevo was also injured but not fatally.
A trial began and Stevo was convicted of manslaughter and sentenced to five years in prison.
Saleh's family however appealed at a Shariah court and in a turn from bad to worse, Stevo was sentenced to death.
This meant that besides having an ‘expiry date’, the Kenyan, who is a father of three – two sons and a daughter, was to face his death by a sword.
Alternatively, a "diya" or "blood money", could be paid as financial compensation to the victim or his heir in cases of murder, bodily harm or property destruction by mistake.
This is provided by the Islamic law.
In Stevo's case, being manslaughter – killing by mistake- Saleh’s family agreed to 10 million Saudi Arabia Riyals (SAR).
This was however negotiated and managed to get it reduced to 3.5 million Saudi Riyals, which translated to approximately Sh150 million.
This is the amount which must be paid, in full, before Stevo is released and the sword hanging over his head is taken away.
When she addressed the media about her son’s situation on Wednesday, May 8, a visibly pained Kweyu said the deadline for payment of the blood money is next Wednesday, May 15.
Considering how fast approaching the date is and the gravity of any action regarding it, Stevo’s family and friends are now appealing to Kenyans of goodwill to help raise the money.
Thanking those who have since extended their help, a committee formed for this matter ‘Bring Back Stevo’ noted that if a million people would contribute Sh150 before Wednesday, there is hope for getting Kenya’s son back home safely.
The committee chaired by Joseph Odindo has organized a fundraising drive for Sunday, May 11 at 3 pm at a venue to be communicated.
A link for the fundraiser will also be shared for those willing to participate virtually.
“We appeal to all wellwishers to join us in this harambee,” Odindo urged Kenyans.
Those wishing to send their contributions for Stevo’s release can use Paybill No: 8056675 (Let’s Bring Back Stevo) with the Account Name being the donor’s name.
Alternatively, one can send via M pesa to 0702878717 (Dorothy Musopole).
The Committee also appealed to President William Ruto to intervene and help Stevo.
“We urge him to apply his authority and influence to help secure the release of Stephen Munyakho or plead an extension of the May 15 deadline to give the family more time to raise the money,” Odindo said.
