Rally in Paris to Demand Release of Iranian Rapper and End to Executions in Iran

Organizations Unite for Rapper's Freedom and Abolition of Death Penalty

Several organizations, including ACAT, Iran Justice, Amnesty International, and the Human Rights League, have published a column on the Libération website calling for a rally in Paris. The event, scheduled for Sunday, aims to demand the release of Iranian rapper Toomaj Salehi, who was recently sentenced to death, and to call for the abolition of the death penalty in Iran. The organizations emphasize the ongoing repression in Iran, particularly against women and girls who defy the compulsory veil laws.

Background of Toomaj Salehi's Arrest and Sentencing

Toomaj Salehi, a 33-year-old rapper, was arrested in October 2022 for his involvement in supporting the protest movement through his music and social media. The movement was sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in September 2022, a young Iranian Kurd detained for allegedly violating Iran's strict dress code. Salehi was sentenced to death this week by a revolutionary court in Isfahan for "corruption on earth."

France Condemns Salehi's Death Sentence

The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs has strongly condemned the death sentence handed to Toomaj Salehi, labeling it "unacceptable" and a violation of fundamental rights. The ministry's statement highlighted the broader context of harsh responses to the 2022 protests in Iran, including numerous death sentences and executions. The statement reiterated that these actions by Iranian authorities do not address the legitimate aspirations for freedom among the Iranian people.

Execution Statistics in Iran Show Alarming Increase

Amnesty International reports a significant increase in executions in Iran, with 853 recorded in 2023. This number marks a 48% increase from 2022 and a 172% increase from 2021, underscoring the extensive use of capital punishment in the country.