Monday, April 26, 2010

Mother of Kaveh Kermanshahi Writes to Ayatollah Larijani

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Since February 3, 2010, human rights activist Kaveh Ghasemi Kermanshahi has been detained in a centre run by the office of the Kermanshah Ministry of Intelligence (in western Iran). He is under “pressure and [endures] physical and mental torture” to confess to the charge of “espionage.”

Kermanshahi’s mother Farangis Davoodi was able to visit her son briefly on April 8, 2010, with the presence of the interrogator. After the visit, Farangis Davoodi described her son’s physical and psychological condition as “very unfavourable.” Kaveh stated that he “has repeatedly denied the charge and considers all his activities civil, peaceful, and legal.”

The honourable head of judiciary Ayatollah Larijani:

My name is Farangis Davoodi. I am a retired teacher. I am writing to let you know that my son Kaveh Ghasemi Kermanshahi is being held in custody at the Kermanshah security office since February 3, 2010.

During this period I visited the detention center frequently to ask about my son’s case and condition, but I have not received any answers from anyone. They have twice renewed his detention period, by the order of the ninth section of Kermanshah’s judiciary. I have only been granted permission to visit him twice.

I am writing to you, in your capacity as the head of the country’s judiciary system, not only because my son has been held in custody for a long duration of time without specific charges, but because his health condition during our last meeting was extremely worrisome. He acknowledged to us that he is under extreme mental pressure to accept the accusations against him and to confess to what he has never done.

In addition, according to the attached medical certification, my son should be under close monitoring by a specialist because of his mouth surgery. Unfortunately, however, we have received no response to our frequent requests to provide Kaveh with a visit from a specialist. As a consequence, his health could be seriously compromised. As a mother, even imagining the disastrous heath problems which he may face as a result of this, brings tears to my eyes every minute of every day.

I also have another concern. All of my son’s activities were clear-cut, peaceful, and according to the country’s laws. As such, detainment and tolerating hard conditions in prison are unfair for someone who honestly tries hard to improve society.

I urgently request that you order an end to the mental torment of my only child, speed up the court process, and finally release him.

May my prayers as a mother be with you so you issue a kind order,

Farangis Davoodi

12/04/2010

Translation: Banoo Sabz | Persian2English.com

Family of Ayatollah Boroujerdi Writes to Ban Ki-Moon


Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) - The family of political prisoner Ayatollah Seyyed Hossein Kazemeyni Boroujerdi has written a letter to Ban Ki-moon, urging the Secretary-General of the United Nations to visit Evin prison. Ayatollah Boroujerdi is a dissident cleric who opposes the principle of Velayat-e Faqih (Supreme Leader) and the Islamic Republic regime.

On April 22, 2010, Boroujerdi was severely beaten by prison agents and moved to an unknown location. The cleric was accused of protesting against the widespread human rights abuses that take place in prison.

The letter from Ayatollah Boroujerdi’s family to Ban Ki-moon:

Dear Mr. Ban Ki-Moon, Secretary-General of the United Nations

Please accept our greetings,

We would like to inform you that Ayatollah Seyyed Hossein Kazemeyni Boroujerdi, a prominent prisoner of conscience, has been in detention since October 8, 2006. He endures excruciating conditions in solitary confinement and in the general wards in prison. He has never enjoyed the privilege of temporary release, even though it has been granted to many other prisoners.

Mr. Boroujerdi has contracted life-threatening illnesses in prison as a result of physical and psychological torture and lack of access to proper medical services and treatment. Prison officials have not taken the necessary steps to provide Mr. Boroujerdi with the required medical attention. Moreover, in the past few months, there have been several attempts against his life in prison, in an effort to silence his voice.

We express our grave concern about the fate of Mr. Boroujerdi. On your trip to Iran, we request that you witness firsthand the tragic conditions [he is forced to endure]in Evin prison and ask you to investigate the human rights violations that occur in Iran.

We thank you for your time and consideration in advance.

Sincerely,

The family of Ayatollah Seyyed Hossein Kazemeyni Boroujerdi

April 19, 2010

Translated by: Siavosh J. | Persian2English.com

Zahra Rahnavard Demands Release of Prisoners


Iranian artist and politician Zahra Rahnavard demands the release of all imprisoned workers and teachers.

Zahra Rahnavard’s demands come in honour of International Workers Day and Teachers Day:

1. Demonstrate good will by first and foremost releasing all imprisoned workers and teachers.

2. Release female prisoners and all other prisoners (known or unknown) held in Iran.

3. Hold a free and democratic election nationwide.

4. Pay close attention to the advice and constructive criticism by your opponents who have warned you on numerous occasions of the dangers of a bankrupt economy that will lead to [more] unemployment, drug addiction, and the destruction of families. In other words, tighten your belt and refrain from unwise trade practices that lead to negativity. Stop idolizing countries like Burkina Faso, Zimbabwe, and China; their economic policies have only lead to bankrupt factories, hungry people, children with no clothing and shelter, and unemployment.

5. Allow freedom of press, the forth element in separation of power in a democratic society.

6. In lieu of a military environment, create a culturally and intellectually open environment conducive to free thought and freedom of expression.

Translation: Negar Irani

We Remember You Shiva: Messages of support and hope for Shiva Nazar Ahari


As a result of efforts by Iranian and non-Iranian human rights activists from various countries, postcards and messages were sent to Shiva Nazar Ahari’s family for Norooz (Iranian New Year).

Prominent human rights activist and starred student Shiva Nazar Ahari has spent a total of 220 days in jail since June 2009 (she was arrested, released, then re-arrested). 100 of those days was spent in solitary confinement in Evin prison.

Shiva Nazar Ahari was arrested for the second time on December 19, 2009. She had been released on a $200,000 USD bail early September 2009.

Currently, Navid Khanjani, Kouhyar Goodarzi and Shiva Nazar Ahari are three members of the Committee of Human Rights Reporters who remain detained in Evin prison.

Translated by: Siavosh J. | Persian2English.com

Iran Bans the Use of Foreign Words in Media

Iran Bans the Use of Foreign Words in Media


HRANA – After an approval by the cabinet, the Deputy Minister for Cinema Affairs wrote a letter to the general director of supervision and assessment that states a ban on using foreign words in Iranian movie titles.

The following is an excerpt of the letter, as reported by the Islamic Republic News Agency:

Dear Mr. Seyed Alireza Sajadpour,

Greetings,

“Based on an approval by the cabinet to ban foreign words in banners, advertisements, etc…from now on, Iranian movies are not permitted to use foreign words in titles. This ban applies to films currently in production as well.”

Translated by: Arash Azizi | Persian2English.com

Eight University students suspended for participation in protests

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sign reads: "Education is our human right"

The President at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz (southwestern Iran) has suspended eight students and banned them from entering the school premises. There are separate reports of other student suspensions, but their names are not known.

According to the Daneshjoo news website, after widespread student protests in fall 2009 at various universities in Iran, disciplinary committees and the security establishment have intensified their crackdown on student protesters.

Nearly 40 students have been summoned to the disciplinary committee at Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz since December 7, 2009.

The following is the list of the students who were suspended and banned from Shahid Chamran University of Ahvaz:

1- Javad Alikhani (veterinary medicine)- two-semester suspension.

The following students have all been suspended for one semester:

2- Arman Mombayeni (Veterinary Medicine)

3- Mohammad Mousavi Rahimi (Engineering)

4- Mohsen Jafarpour (Engineering)

5- Farank Osulian (Engineering)

6- Fatemeh Taqvazadeh (Literature)

7- Ahamd Keshtkar (Agriculture)

The above list only includes the names of students whose suspension orders have been confirmed. There are many other students awaiting decision by the disciplinary committee.

Translated by: Siavosh J. | Persian2English.com

Death Sentence Unofficially Changed to Prison Term for Amir Reza Arefi

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Human Right Activists News Agency (HRANA) – Mohammad Hossein Agassi, the lawyer for Amir Reza Arefi, announced that there is a possibility that the death sentence for his client has been changed to a prison term instead.

According to HRANA reporters, Agasssi stated, “I have not yet seen the decision by the Appeals Court, but I have been informed that his sentence was reduced to 15 years in prison.” Agassi states the same news was also delivered to Arefi’s family.

Translated by: Siavosh J. | Persian2English.com

Habibollah Golparipour Sentenced to Death on Charge of Moharebeh



RAHANA – Habibollah Golparipour, a native of Sanandaj (capital of Kurdistan, Iran), was sentenced to death by the Revolutionary Court in the city of Mahabad (Kurdistan, Iran).

Golparipour was accused of propaganda and membership in an anti-regime group. He was tried on the charge of Moharebeh. The court cited articles 186 and 190 of the Islamic Penal Code for its decision.

Golparipour is currently detained in Mahabad prison. He spent part of his six-month pre-trial detention in Sanandaj. Golparipour’s lawyer Seyed Ehsan Mohtava confirmed the death sentence and stated that he plans to appeal the ruling issued to his client. Golparipour and his lawyer have 20 days to file an appeal.

Source: RAHANA

Report on Prison Sentences for Kurdish Activists, Residents of Babol, and Post-Election Protesters


According to Human Rights Activist in Iran, until now, 18 Kurdish political activists in prisons in western Iran are awaiting to be executed: Ali Heidarian, Farzad Kamangar, Farhad Vakili, Shirin Alamhoei, Zeinab Jalalian, Habib Latifi, Shirkoo Moarefi, Jamal Mohammadi, Sami Hosseini, Rostam Arkia, Rashid Akhkandi, Hossein Khazri, Mostafa Salimi, Anvar Rostami, Mohammad Amin Agoushi, Iraj Mohammadi, Ahmad Pouladkhani, and Hasan Talei.

In addition, Kurdish activist Habibollah Golparipour was sentenced to death last week.

Iranian courts have also issued heavy prison sentences for five individuals arrested following the post-election protests. Their names are: Kiarash Kamrani, Omid Yavari, Arash Ghasemi, Abolfazl Ghasemi, and Ozra Sadat Ghazi Mirsaeed.

Ozra Sadati Mirsaeed was arrested on June 20, 2009 a peaceful demonstration at Enghelab Square. Tehran’s Revolutionary Court sentenced her to three years in prison which was later approved after appeal. She is currently detained in Evin prison and under severe physical and psychological torture.

Also, student activist Milad Fadayi has been sentenced by branch 28 of the Revolutionary Court to a one-year conditional prison term for “propaganda against the system.” He is currently detained in Evin prison.

On April 20, 2010, students Nima Nahvi and Hossein Jalil Nataj began to serve their ten-month prison sentences. Te two students have also been suspended for one year from university.

There is a total of five students from the city of Babol who are serving prison sentences. Mohsen Barzegar and Mohammad Esmailzadeh are serving prison time in Mata Kala prison. After Mohsen Barzegar was beaten severely by inmates in prison, he was transferred to the prison’s clinic.

Source: Iran Green Voice

Milad Fadayi sentenced to a one-year conditional prison term


Committee of Human Rights Reporters (CHRR) - Azad University of Tehran student activist Milad Fadayi was sentenced in branch 28 of the Revolutionary Court with judge Moghiseh to a one-year conditional prison term. Fadayi was charged with “propaganda against the system.”

Fadayi has been temporarily imprisoned now for four months and the Prosecutor has not allowed bail. The student activist spent 35 days of his arrest in ward 209 of Evin prison. He is currently detained in ward 350.

On December 2, 2009, mining engineering student Milad Fadayi was arrested in his home by five plainclothes agents from the Revolutionary Court. His house was searched and his computer and books were confiscated.

Translated by: Arash Azizi | Persian2English.com

International Campaign Interviews Lawyer Farideh Gheirat on new Evin prison court

Prominent Iranian lawyer Farideh Gheirat

In an interview about the Evin Prison Court which has been established for reviewing the cases of political prisoners, prominent Iranian lawyer and former Deputy Chairperson of the Iranian Bar Association Farideh Gheirat told International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran that access to her clients’ cases has become extremely difficult. She also said that distinguished human rights activist Emaddedin Baghi’s lawyer has been unable to access his case file.

Regarding Emaddedin Baghi’s case she said: “Unfortunately, not even the lawyer directly responsible for Mr. Baghi’s case has any information about the case. I don’t know anything about my clients’ cases during the investigations phase. They only allow me to present my power of attorney document when an indictment has been issued, and only then can I review the case and present my defense. Especially regarding Mr. Baghi’s case, I asked about his wife about his situation today and she told me that he continues to remain in an indeterminate state and his lawyer has not been able to see his file yet.”

Farideh Gheirat, a lawyer who represents some of the journalists and politicians detained after the elections told International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran also said: “The courts established at Evin Prison are courts which were previously located in the Revolutionary Courts. When they were at the Revolutionary Courts, people and lawyers had easier access to them. During the interrogation stage, lawyers are not allowed any involvement with the case, but [inside the Revolutionary Courts] it was possible for the lawyers to go and find information about the cases. But now, after the Ashura events and even before that during the [post-] elections events, they have set up the courts inside the Evin Prison and with the exception of one or two court branches which remain inside the Revolutionary Courts, all the other courts are now at Evin.

These courts specifically review the cases of those detained. Accessing these courts for us lawyers is not possible at all, as lawyers and others are not allowed inside. As a result, we cannot even have access to what little and incomplete information we used to gain about [our] cases, as this is no longer possible. For example, [there are instances where] the investigations have been completed and the case file has been sent to the Revolutionary Courts, but we have not yet been informed so that we may present our power of attorney documents and there is no way for us to gain such information. Of course, changing the location of a court is within the powers of the Judiciary and we cannot ask why a court has been set up in a particular location, but lack of access for lawyers and public has become problematic for essential followups.”

Appeals Court Sentences Mohammad Pourabdollah to Three Years in Prison

Student activist Mohammad Pourabdollah was sentenced to a three-year prison term by the Appeals Court of branch 36 in Tehran.

On a previous date, Pourabdollah was charged with ‘propaganda against the state and society’ and ‘conspiracy to disturb national security.’ Branch 15 of the Revolutionary Court sentenced him to six years in prison, but the sentence was later reduced to three years by the Appeals Court.

Mohammad Pourabdollah, who is a chemical engineering student at the University of Tehran, was arrested on February 12, 2009 at his home. He was detained for over one month in solitary confinement in ward 209 of Evin Prison. A month later, on March 18, 2009, Pourabdollah was to Ghezel Hesar prison.

Teachers’ Trade Association Issues Statement for Nationwide Hunger Strike Protest


The Coordinating Council of Iranian Education Workers and Teachers’ Trade Association has issued a statement to announce that a group of its members will go on hunger strike to protest the “illegal execution and imprisonment sentences” issued to a number of teachers.

The statement reads that the executive members of the Teachers’ Trade Association and a number of associated labour activists will start a hunger strike on May 2, 2010, which is National Teacher’s Day. It calls on all Iranian teachers to participate.

The Association calls for the “immediate and unconditional release” of all teachers from prison and a withdrawal of all legal and official actions against “critical educators.” The signatories call for better provisions for public schools through oil and gas revenues. They also request that partiality and political maneuvers be avoided when developing school curricula. They demand an end to the “security-tight atmosphere” in the Ministry of Education and job security for teachers.

The statement also calls for an end to the “promotion of spies” in schools and all forms of persecution for “critical” educators.”

The statement contends that teachers who join a demonstration or a gathering or represent their ideas on education or discuss publicly the difficulties they face in their profession are “persecuted beyond the law and their voices do not reach far.”

The letter refers to Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s statement that describes Iran as the “freest country in the world” and questions heavy sentences like “execution, imprisonment, exile, forced retirement, demotion and suspension” issued to “caring and honest teachers of the country.”

The statement lists the names of imprisoned teachers including Badaghi, Khastar, Davari, and Momeni who have been sentenced to long prison terms that “have led to the “loss of livelihood for their families.” On the execution sentences issued to teachers Farzad Kamangar and Abdolreza Ghanbari, the Association states that the rulings are “not befitting for the Islamic Republic.”

Source: Radio Zamaneh

Ayatollah Boroujerdi Severely Beaten by Prison Agents

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RAHANA – On April 22, 2010, Ayatollah Boroujerdi was severely beaten by prison agents and moved to an unknown location. The cleric was accused of protesting against the widespread human rights abuses that occur in prison.

Fellow inmates had unanimously supported Boroujerdi when he voiced a strong objection to the revocation of visitation rights, distribution of spoiled food, lack of hot water and medical services, lack of security, and the inhumane actions of certain prison guards. Prison officials claimed that Boroujerdi attempted to incite riots.

Source: RAHANA

Student Activist for Mousavi Campaign Mysteriously Dies


Keyvan Goodarzi, a university mathematics student in Iranshahr University, has mysetriously died.

According to the Kurdane website, Goodarzi’s body was found in a telephone booth located behind the university’s kitchen. Goodarzi was known as an activist for Mir Hossein Mousavi’s June 2009 presidential campaign. The cause of Goodarzi’s death has not been determined.

University officials attempted to pass off Goodarzi’s body as a custodian who had died from an accidental electrocution. According to witnesses, the victim’s face was severely damaged. University officials have suggested that Goodarzi committed suicide, but this has not been officially confirmed.

Amirkabir University Student Suspended for Download of Regime Raid Video


Polytechnic University student suspended for two semesters.

[editor's note: Tehran Polytechnic University was renamed Amirkabir University of Technology in 1979]

Saeed Mohammad Amini, Metallurgy Engineering student at Tehran’s Amirkabir University, has been sentenced to a two-semester suspension by the school’s disciplinary committee.

According to the Daneshjoo News website, Amini who is a member of the scientific association of Amirkabir University, was summoned to the university’s security office and threatened.

The disciplinary committee states one of the charges for Amini is downloading the film that reveals the raid by police and plain clothes agents on the school dormitory. Since late March 2010, Amini has been banned from the university.

Report Brief on Lesser Known Prisoners in Evin Prison’s Ward 350


The following report by RAHANA briefly profiles lesser known prisoners in ward 350 of Evin prison: Pouya Ghorbani, Mehdi Koohkan, Arsalan Abadi, Iman Zare’i, Maysam Baik-Mohammadi, Kiarash Kamrani, and Amir Mohammadi.

RAHANA – The situation of ward 350 prisoners Pouya Ghorbani and Mehdi Koohkan in Evin prison is uncertain. Ghorbani’s wife was also arrested, but released on bail prior to Norooz (Iranian New Year, March 21, 2010).

International Qazvin University student Arsalan Abadi has been detained since Ashura (December 27 2009). He was first charged with Moharebeh (enmity with God), but at a later date his charge was reduced. He is currently waiting for information on his case.

Iman Zare’i and Maysam Baik Mohammadi have been sentenced to three years in prison and are currently detained in ward 350.

26 year old Kiarash Kamrani has been sentenced to six years in prison and is currently detained in ward 350.

Amir Mohammadi, also detained in ward 350, has been sentenced to one year in prison followed by a one-year suspended term.

Lawyer Mostafaei Writes Letter to Larijani on Illegal Court Processes

Human rights lawyer Mohammad Mostafaei

In a widely published recent letter to Sadegh Larijani, Head of Iranian Judiciary, Mohammad Mostafaei, lawyer to a group of civil and political activists, has objected to “numerous violations by the Head of branch 28 of the Revolutionary Court,” demanding closer oversight of court officers related to this branch. In an interview with the International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran, addressing the inappropriate conduct of the judge and other authorities of branch 28, he explained his reasons for writing the open letter. “Several times, when I went to the Revolutionary Court and branch 28, I was not treated appropriately as a lawyer, unfortunately. I noticed instances which were against the law, and even when I submitted requests or raised the issues with the branch judge, the judge would not accept them and I was forced to go visit the court’s supervisor; at any rate, I couldn’t find any answers [to my objections].”

Mostafaei has referred to instances of “temporary detention” rulings in this branch as clear examples of violations of the law: “One of the most important considerations is that individuals must not be illegally arrested. This has been spelled out by the law. If a suspect is arrested, it is because there are reasons and signs that the individual has committed a crime, and the judicial authority issues a temporary detention order [to investigate the matter]. A temporary detention order has limits and boundaries and it cannot last forever. The legislator has determined the framework and has stated that the suspect must not spend more time in detention that the minimum punishment stipulated in the law. If the minimum punishment for a crime is three months, the suspect should not be detained more than three months, and if an arrest warrant has been issued [in the meantime], it should be revoked and turned into another appropriate order.”

Regarding the prevalent procedure of verbal summons of individuals to court, calling it “illegal” Mostafaei has said: “Summons must be made in writing and branch office manager or secretary are not authorized to serve summons verbally. Though it is possible to summon an individual to the judicial offices verbally, but the legislator has stipulated that judicial branch offices must serve the summons in writing.”

Another instance Mostafaei has emphasized in his letter is his suggestion for a committee of judges who serve in the Judges Court and judicial inspectors for overseeing the performance of this unit of the Judiciary.

Regarding specific violations by branch 28 of the Revolutionary Court, Mostafaei mentions the cases of two of his clients, Sassan Aghaee and Mohammad Fadaei: “One of the cases in which this specific violation has taken place, is the case of Sassan Aghaee. Though he is currently free on a $100,000 bail, he spent four months in prison. If he were to be found guilty, the maximum sentence for his crime would have been three months and the judicial authorities would not have been able to detain him longer than three months. The other instance is the case of Mohammad Fadaei. He has been in detention for the past five months on charges of propagation against the regime.”

Further describing the violations of the Head of branch 28 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court in his letter to the Head of the Judiciary, the lawyer writes:

Regrettably, the judge of branch 28 of the Tehran Revolutionary Court, Mr. Moghiseh, has acted against the law in numerous cases in some of which I have represented the defense. Fundamental and mandatory laws including the Iranian Procedures for Criminal Prosecution and The Legitimate Freedoms and the Protection of Citizenship Rights have been ignored and the rights of many suspects whose files have been sent to this branch have been violated. For example, it is necessary to pay special supervision and attention to the matters of illegal arrests of suspects where the law has stipulated that detention of suspects cannot be more than the minimum punishment reflected in the law; refusal to end the temporary detention orders upon expiry of the detention reasons; refusal to issue orders enabling the lawyers to meet with their clients in prison and to sign power of attorney documents; refusing to inform the defense about the exact time of the trial and, more importantly, refusal to serve judicial documents and copies of indictments, depriving the suspects from their right to defend themselves fairly.

Mostafaeel has also sent copies of his letter to the Iranian Parliament’s Article 90 Commission, Judges Court, Committee to Protect The Legitimate Freedoms and the Protection of Citizenship Rights, Iranian Bar Association of Tehran, and The Judiciary’s Human Rights Commission.

Source: International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran

Student Prisoner Behrouz Javid Tehrani Urges Ban Ki-moon to Visit Rajai Shahr Prison

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Respected United Nation’s Secretary-General, Mr. Ban Ki-moon

Greetings,

I have been detained as a political prisoner for the past ten years in Rajai Shahr prison (Gohardasht, Iran), one of the worst detention centres in Iran. I have not committed any crime and there are no charges against me.

I have witnessed all forms of human rights violations including interrogations and illegal trials. I have been a witness of crime, torture, injustice, death, corruption, death due to lack of treatment, prisoner suicides, and more for ten years.

Prisoners in solitary confinement hall 2 of ward 1 are beaten with batons (sometimes electrical), sticks, and cable wire, which often causes the prisoners to urinate on themselves. Last year, a young man died after being beaten by a baton. Prisoners are left alone for several days in solitary cells with their hands tied behind their backs and their feet shackled. The only way they can be untied is if they call themselves and their family members derogatory names. In solitary confinement hall 2, taking a shower is considered a perk. Sometimes a prisoner is not able to take a shower for a full month. If a prisoner does not surrender to prison guards, they are prohibited from using the bathroom as well. There is no such thing as fresh air in this hall, and in its history there is no record of radio, television, newspaper, telephone, visits, or books. Prison guards address the prisoners by insulting and humiliating names. Seeing a doctor is a privilege that not everyone is entitled to. According to them, prisoners are not allowed to get sick or see a doctor more than once a month. A close friend of mine Amir Husain Heshmat Saran died because he did receive treatment on time. I also know of a sick prisoner at this hall whose name is Dariush Arjomand. He has been kept in solitary confinement for two and a half years. He is an AIDS patient and the prison clinic has stopped providing him with antibiotic pills so he will die sooner. They do not even give him the minimum medicine necessary for AIDS patients. Prison guards are afraid to open his cell to send him to the bathroom or a shower. His cell light has been out for a while but no one has gone in to change the bulb.

Our ward is managed by Hassan Akharian, a drug addict who treats the prisoners violently. If any prisoner objects to his unreasonable behaviour, they are automatically sent to solitary confinement hall 2. He has taken away the camera in one of the rooms so he can turn the space into a torture chamber. Ali Hajkazem is the corrupt head of Rajai Shahr prison who allows the guards to commit the crimes. In 2005, I identified more than ten cases of the sale of death row prisoner body parts without permission from the prisoners. Prison clinics have also participated in this crime. I know the names of three prisoners whose body parts were sold without their permission: Afshin Karimi, Shervin Goodarzi, and Ahmad Hanani.

The prison also lacks space and the prisoners go through mental breakdowns as a result. In Rajai Shahr prison, only four of the twenty four halls have beds. The prisoners in the other halls do not even have enough space to sleep; an obvious example of torture. In hall 1 and 3 of ward 1, mental prisoners are mixed with other prisoners, which results in abuse among prisoners.

Mr. Ban Ki-moon, I am trying to make a long story short, but I am not only speaking on my behalf. I am speaking on the behalf of all political and non-political prisoners who do not have access to your Excellency. I request that when you visit our beautiful country, please come see us in Rajai Shahr prison. It will be my pleasure to accompany you and your counselors and guide you through the darkest corners of the prison’s torture rooms and show you the signs of human rights violations. Certainly your visit to Iran and this prison can affect the conditions of more than 3,000 prisoners, in addition to providing you with more evidence for review.

We are eagerly waiting for your arrival.

Behrouz Javid Tehrani, political prisoner and human rights activist.

Rajai Shahr Prison, Hall 1, Ward 1, Goharsdasht, Karaj, Iran

Mahdieh Golroo’s Family Cannot Afford $500,000 Bail


RAHANA – Following a meeting between Mahdieh Golroo’s mother and judge Pir-Abassi, the judge agreed to reduce the amount of bail by $200,000 USD, bringing it to $500,000 USD.

Golroo’s husband Vahid Lalipour said, “The problem is that even the $500,000 bail is not within our means, otherwise we would not have hesitated even for a minute to post it. We would not let our dear Mahdieh remain captive even for one more night. We have no other choice but to wait and see whether the court will agree to the amount the family has been able to secure after much difficulty.”

Mahdieh Golroo was arrested on November 3, 2009 and is currently detained in Tehran’s Evin prison.

Translation by: RAHANA

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Former University of Tehran Chancellor Talks of Iran’s Forgotten Prisoners


“I am extremely disappointed. Those imprisoned kids are not getting the attention they deserve, especially the unknown students.”

April 15, 2010


RAHANA – Dr. Mohammad Maleki is the former chancellor of the University of Tehran. He has been a political prisoner before and after the 1979 Islamic Revolution. He was imprisoned for five years after the revolution for opposing the Cultural Revolution, which resulted in the closure of universities across the country. In 2000, Dr. Maleki was arrested again at a meeting held by the National-Religious activists (national-religious is a term used to refer to supporters of the Iranian National Front).

Following the disputed June 2009 election, Maleki, who suffers from cancer, was arrested again. He was taken from his bed to Tehran’s Evin Prison, where he stayed until March 1, 2010 when he was released pending trial.

The following is the English translation of an interview he gave to Radio Zamaneh.

Radio Zamaneh – Regarding the current status of his legal case, Dr. Mohammad Maleki responded:


“Yesterday, I was told by my lawyers that they met with the judge and obtained his consent. [The lawyers] provided documents related to my medical condition which proved the need for my ongoing treatment. Therefore, the judge agreed to postpone the trial and said that we will be informed of the new date.”

Radio Zamaneh – You mean, during the time you were detained, you were not informed of your charges?

Dr. Maleki – No, I did not see the charges. I have been charged with insulting the Leader and acting against national security, but I have not seen the indictment or its contents. The lawyers and the magistrate have stated these are my charges.

Radio Zamaneh – Mr. Maleki, you have said that you will not take part in a closed trial. Are you not worried that this will have a negative effect on the case and will result in a heavier sentence? What are the reasons for your decision?

Dr. Maleki – Attending or not attending will not make a difference. There should come a day when this country at least respects its own constitution. Things cannot remain the same. 30 years after the revolution one of the most important parts of the constitution is still not respected. The constitution says explicitly that political charges should be tried by a jury in open trials with the presence of the media.

Back in 2000, when I was arrested with national-religious activists, I said that I would not take part in the trial because I considered the trial to be illegal. Therefore, I think this matter should be resolved once and for all. We either have to respect the constitution in its entirety or just keep those articles that please us and guarantee the interests of the regime. The constitution has provisions that guarantee the rights of the people and must be respected.

I will not even mention that these rights are not respected during the arrests and interrogations under the usual pretext that political crime has not been defined by the law. Why should this be my problem as the accused?

Since the revolution I have been arrested three times for being anti-revolutionary. Yesterday, a hearing was supposed to be held, but I have no knowledge of the indictment and have not been allowed to read what has been written against me.

Radio Zamaneh – Mr Maleki, when you were arrested you were in bad physical shape; you were ill throughout your detention and were hospitalized for a period of time. How is your condition now?

Dr. Maleki – My physical condition is the same. During the six months I was in detention, I was not able to receive the injections I needed. As a result, I endured burning and pain. Since my release, I have been injected twice and the burning and pain has reduced. I feel, however, that since I have come out, my psychological condition is worse than before.

Radio Zamaneh – Can you tell us why your emotional state is worse now compared to when you were in prison?

Mr. Maleki – Because I keep worrying for those kids. There are so many unknown and anonymous students in prison and no one is thinking about them. No one remembers that they are the children of this country. What crime have they committed? One day this matter must be addressed.

Unfortunately, not only is the regime unconcerned, but I have rarely seen Green movement friends come strongly to their defense. They have a life and studies they need to go back to. Their families continue to wait for them outside of Evin prison. These are the things that hurt me more than cancer.

Radio Zamaneh – Mr. Maleki, you were not active during the election. You had said you did not believe in it and therefore did not participate. Yet, your arrest was related to post-election events. What is your current view of the election?

Dr. Maleki – As you said, I was not at all active during the election because first of all, I was sick, and secondly, I do not believe in an election where you have to vote for a few candidates chosen by the Guardian Council. I was arrested on August 22, 2009, so I was in prison when most of those events happened. I was in solitary confinement for the first three months without access to newspapers or television. Until I was taken to the general ward, I was unaware of what was happening outside prison.

When I was taken there (to the general ward), I got some information, but since my release, I have come to the realization that all the old problems continue to exist.

The insider/outsider divide remains. No one is thinking about these kids. What I noticed about the supporters of the Green or reformist movement is that their behaviour toward others has not changed a lot. They have held on to their outsider/insider culture. They welcome those who are one of their own but others remain outsiders to them.

In the one and half months since my release, I have maybe gone out ten times, mostly to the hospital or to see my doctor. I have tried to have little contact and have not been interested in what is happening. Our people have not fundamentally changed during this time, we are the same people we were before. Our elite have kept their egocentric and selfish culture.

Radio Zamaneh – Dr Maleki, it seems like you are disappointed with the green movement leaders.

Dr. Maleki – I am extremely disappointed. Those imprisoned kids are not getting the attention they deserve, especially the unknown students. I know many of them and saw them in prison, but there is no mention of them on websites. They have been in prison for months and some of them have been handed four or five year prison terms for no reason.

Sometimes they (the Green Movement or reformists) refer to them, but they never defend them strongly. The type of defense Mr. Sahabi – God bless him – demonstrated a few days ago, I really enjoyed. His letter tells the painful story on behalf of all of us. We have some years behind us (a reference to being old) and have suffered both before and after the revolution. We have seen the Shah’s prisons as well as those of the Islamic Republic. These kids are our children. They have not come from another country. They are the children of this country who had something to say and said it. Even if they shouted their words inside or outside universities, this does not warrant the treatment they receive.

Majid Tavakoli’s Brother Talks to Voice of America


Majid Tavakoli is a member of the Islamic Students Union at Tehran’s Amirkabir (Polytechnic) University of Technology. He was arrested following a speech he gave on December 7, 2009 for Student Day at the university. He has since been held in solitary confinement and sentenced to eight years and six months in prison; two years are for insulting the Supreme Leader and six months are for insulting the President.

VOA correspondent Negar Mortazavi interviewed Ali Tavkoli on his brother’s conditions in prison and the charges against the student activist.

VOA: Can you describe Majid’s most recent condition?

Ali Tavakoli: He is in excellent spirits, but physically he has really weakened. He has spent the entire four months in solitary confinement. He is the only prisoner in ward 240. The other prisoners are all on temporary release. Majid is not allowed to receive any visits or contact anybody outside the prison. If the Attorney General agrees, we will be able to visit Majid as a one-time deal.

VOA: What is the reason behind the 8.5 years sentence? It is one of the recently harshest punishments issued to a political prisoner.

Ali Tavakoli: As Majid himself points out, his only crime is giving a speech. There are no other charges against him. The interrogation papers are not included in his file, so they cannot judge him based on anything investigated or said during the interrogations. That is probably one of the reasons they are not allowing his lawyer access his file. They also accused Majid of conspiracy [to act against national security] by assembling all the students on Student Day on campus so he can deliver a speech. This shows a certain level of spite that the [regime officials] have toward the Student Movement and the vengeance they have against Majid.

Majid’s public criticisms of the government post-election (June 2009) [is the reason for his imprisonment], because the [ruling establishment] believes that there should be no criticism. Since Majid did not agree to say what they wanted him to say [in court], the trial and sentence proceeded in this manner. Now, we are waiting for the Appeals Court to see how the [situation will pan out]. Since the charges against him are false and there is no evidence to back them up, we are hoping a reduction in sentence or even an acquittal.

In my opinion, Majid has not committed any crime that deserves imprisonment. He has only expressed his opinions within the boundaries of the law. Moreover, criticism is not a crime; it was legal. And December 7th is a day that belongs to students.

Voice of Majid Tavakoli on December 7, 2008: “We do not want self-censorship to find its way to the student movement…”

Ali Tavakoli: Students have the right to express their critical views on this day. Majid’s arrest was completely illegal and he was beaten in the course of the arrest.

VOA: Recently many political prisoners were released for Norooz (Iranian New Year) so they can spend the holidays with their families. Why was Majid not released?

Ali Tavakoli: We were under pressure from the Ministry of Intelligence and the government. They told us if we keep silent [and do not give interviews], Majid will contact the family within the next two to seven days, but it has been three months since the last time he contacted home. They do not keep their promises, but they expect us to believe what they say. We had to try for an entire week to obtain permission for our last visit. We live in Shiraz (southwest of Iran), and it is a 14 hour bus ride away [to the court]. My mother is very ill and the trips are hard for her. We were hoping they would allow Majid to talk with my mother for only five minutes after four months of no contact. We do not have high expectations and we do not want much. Our situation is really hard [to deal with]. We are in a real hardship.

Translation by: Siavosh J. | Persian2English.com
Original Source: Daneshjoo News

Student Activist Shabnam Madadzadeh Ill in Evin Prison


Shabnam Madadzadeh Becomes Ill as Poor Food & Hygiene Conditions Continue in Evin

17 April, 2010

RAHANA – Imprisoned student activist Shabnam Madadzadeh began experiencing intestinal cramps last night. The matter was reported to the guard on duty who said there were no night shift doctors at the clinic.

According to a RAHANA reporter, this morning Madadzadeh was covered in a blanket and taken to the prison clinic in Evin prison. The staff claimed that there was no specialist available to visit her. Madadzadeh is suffering from stomach pains and vomiting, and is reportedly in poor physical condition.

The disregard by prison authorities has led to worries among the families of prisoners who have no access to their loved ones. In recent months, there have been several reports indicating poor food and hygienic conditions in the women’s ward. Prison officials continue to ignore the conditions. As a result, many female prisoners have become ill and are suffering from various health problems.

Badrolsadat Mofidi Suffers in Prison Due to Interrogation Pressures


Badrolsadat Mofidi suffers from heart disease and neurological disorder due to pressures during interrogations

Written by: Sara
Apr 17, 2010

HRA News Agency - It has been over 100 days since the arrest of Badrolsadat Mofidi, detained secretary of the Iranian Journalists Association. After a brief meeting with Badrolsadat on April 16, 2010, her family reported that she is [currently] suffering from a heart disease and a nervous breakdown due to the severe pressures [she endured] during interrogation.

According to the Kaleme website, Mofidi’s husband Masoud Aghaie reported that his wife has been under intense interrogations since March 6, 2010. The results of these inhuman acts are “heart disease,” “serious neurological disorder,” and uncontrollable shaking of her hands and head.” Mofidi’s husband and children were finally able to meet with her on Thursday.

As result, prison doctors are insisting on the presence of a psychiatrist or psychologist to help with her critical condition.

In response to the offer to receive the services of Evin prison’s security ward doctors, national-religious activist stated that she prefers to be treated by outside doctors due to her distrust the prison doctors. Aghaie also reported that his wife has been transferred to a closed cell, along with two other prisoners from solitary confinement. Mofidi’s husband complained about the uncertainty in her case and a set of new interrogations. He hoped for “Badrolsadat’s release and her return home.”

International Campaign: Purge of Independent-Minded Professors Underway

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(19 April 2010) The Iranian government continues to dismiss prominent university professors on political grounds, the International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran said today.

After the dismissal of Dr. Morteza Mardiha from his faculty post at Allameh Tabatabai University on April 5, 2010, two Elm-o-San’at University professors were also fired, part of an ongoing process to dismiss faculty members who have different viewpoints from the government, or who have supported students during student protests.

Seyed Ali Asghar Beheshti and Mohammad Shahri of Elm-o-San’at University received written dismissal notices from their faculty positions following a call by Iran’s Minister of Science, Research and Technology for ideological conformity on the part of professors.

“Iran’s purge of professors expressing independent views is an assault on their basic human rights and on academic freedom,” said Aaron Rhodes, a spokesperson for the Campaign.

“These policies will further politicize and debase Iran’s universities, long a source of national pride and admiration by scholars around the world,” he said.

The dismissals were the first of their kind to take place after Minister of Science, Research, and Technology Kamran Daneshjoo’s March 4, 2010 statements, in which he announced that faculty members who do not “share the regime’s direction,” and who do not have “practical commitment to Velayat-e Faqih (rule of the Supreme Leader)” will be dismissed.

“We do not need faculty members whose tendencies and actions are not in coordination with the Islamic Republic regime,” stated Daneshjoo. The announcement is considered the most explicit statement justifying depriving faculty members from their positions due to their political viewpoints. Daneshjoo did not provide any explanations about what constitutes “sharing the regime’s direction.”

According to the news site Kaleme, Seyed Ali Asghar Beheshti Shirazi, an experienced and prominent professor of telecommunications at Elm-o-San’at University, and Professor Mohammad Shahri, an electrical engineering professor, both of whom were employed in the Electrical Engineering Research Center, were dismissed on the morning of April 13, 2010, when they received written notices.

The two professors had earlier written a letter protesting the heavy and unprecedented sentences the University’s Disciplinary Committee had issued students, supporting the students and objecting to the December 28, 2009 entry of plainclothes forces into the campus and beatings of students.

A short time ago, Professor Touraj Mohammadi, Chairman of the Chemical Engineering Department, resigned from his position after being put under immense pressure from the University for objecting to the University’s policies vis a vis the students.

Prior to this, a “mandatory faculty retirement plan,” which had been put into effect to apply pressure and political control over the universities, forced more than 50 distinguished professors into retirement or dismissal. Professors such as Amir Nasser Katouzian, Karim Mojtahedi, Ali Sheikholeslami, Hassan Basharieh, Mahmoud Erfani, Abolghasem Gorji, Mohammad Ashuri, Jamshid Momtaz, Mohammad Reza Shafiee Kadkani, Reza Davari, and several others were dismissed following the implementation of this political project by administrative departments of universities.

On April 5, 2010, in another confrontation by university authorities, Morteza Mardiha, a philosophy professor at Allameh Tabatabai University, received his dismissal notice. Morteza Mardiha and Saba Vasefi, a researcher and professor at Shahid Beheshti University were deprived from teaching on January 20, 2010. Mardiha is a prominent political philosophy expert in Iran. The decision to dismiss him was made in the Philosophy Department of College of Literature after continuous pressure from the University Chancellor.

Mardiha was a ladder-rank faculty member of Allameh Tabatabai University and his deprivation of teaching lacks legal grounds. Saba Vasefi, a researcher, human rights activist, and Shahid Beheshti University faculty member has also been deprived from teaching and dismissed. Vasefi is the third women’s rights activist who has been dismissed from work over the past few months. So far, twelve distinguished faculty members of Allameh Tabatabai University’s Economics Department have been forced into retirement by orders of the Administration Unit of the University.

The International Campaign for Human Rights in Iran calls for an immediate review of political dismissals from Iran’s universities, to be followed by their reinstatement. The Campaign calls on university professors and staff from the international community to stand in solidarity with Iranian professors and scholars who are being ruthlessly separated from their students, their colleagues, and their institutions on the basis of their peaceful political views and expressions.

160 Journalists, Bloggers, and Civil Activists Demand Kaveh Kermanshahi’s Release


160 journalists, bloggers, and civil activists write an open letter to Iran’s Judiciary Chief:

Release Kaveh Kermanshahi Immediately

Your Excellency, Ayatollah Larijani,

Honourable Head of Judiciary,

Kaveh Ghasemi Kermanshahi, journalist and human rights activist who has been in prison since February 3rd, 2010, is under severe physical and psychological pressures to confess to the allegation of “espionage.”

Kaveh Kermanshahi has been detained in solitary confinement for more than 70 days and his lawyer has not been able to meet with him or access his file.

Let us share with you some activities Kaveh Kermanshahi has been involved with: Kermanshahi has studied law and has defended the rights of Kurdish citizens and demands equality for Iranian women. His activities were conducted openly and in a peaceful and reasonable manner.

Kermanshahi’s activities concentrate on the civil human rights of [Iranians] and the freedoms clearly expressed in Iran’s constitution and international conventions. His activities were so clear cut that he would send a copy of all his human rights actions to the security and judicial organizations; no matter if it was a criticism, protest, or request. Kermanshahi has entered negotiations and discussions with officials many times on issues pertaining to human rights or saving the life of a prisoner on death row. Kaveh Kermanshahi’s activities are centered around human rights and the civil society; he has never engaged in any particular political activity. He is respected and trusted among other human rights and civil activists in Iran. Putting him under pressure to extract a confession to espionage has raised grave concern among citizens, friends, and human rights activists.

Even though a clear definition of being a spy is not given in Iranian law, based on some sections of the law, a spy is a person who gathers classified military, economical, and political documents and information with the intention of sending to hostile countries.

What kind of classified information did Kaveh Kermanshahi have access to that publishing the information can be interpreted as espionage for foreigners? Is reporting in an unbiased manner on the conditions of prisoners of conscious, taking efforts to save the lives of other human beings, demanding peace and equality, and insisting on adherence to the constitution and international human rights conventions considered espionage? What kind of spy sends a copy of all his activities to the judicial and security institutions and enters discussions with these organizations?

Putting pressure on Kaveh Kermanshahi to accept the espionage charge is unacceptable and has raised public concern. The presence of renowned activists like Kaveh Kermanshahi among society is vital. Intimidating independent human rights activists, smothering their voice, and interrupting the free flow of information leads to nowhere and is non-beneficial for society and the ruling establishment.

We are a group of civil activists, journalists, and bloggers who are expressing our deepest concern over Kaveh Kermanshahi’s physical and psychological state. We consider any pressure exerted on him inhumane and illegal.

We request from you, as the head of the Judiciary, not to allow the persecution of human rights activists. It is unacceptable that those responsible for the Kahrizak tragedy and the murderers of Kianoosh Asa, Neda Agha Soltan, and Sohrab Arabi are still free; while human rights activists who have not committed a crime are immediately arrested under a bogus pretext, and then must spend months in solitary confinement and finally face charges of Moharabeh [enmity against God] and Espionage.

We, the undersigned, request security pressures on Kaveh Ghasem Kermanshahi to halt and [demand] his immediate and unconditional release.

Saturday, April 3, 2010

Status of Majid Tavakoli Unknown


The status of Majid Tavakoli, student activist and member of the Islamic Students Association of Polytecnic University, is unknown.

Majid Tavakoli was arrested on December 7, 2009 [shortly after] delivering a speech [in commemoration of] Student Day. Even though the court has sentenced him to prison, Tavakoli remains in solitary confinement.

Since January 7, 2010, the day that Majid Tavakoli called home, he has had no other contact with his family. Any attempt by Majid Tavakoli’s family to arrange an in-person meeting with him has proved fruitless.

Majid Tavakoli’s unknown status has caused his family much worry.

Translation by: Maryam | Persian2English.com

Rights activist Dr. Firoozi under severe pressure in Evin


Human rights activist Dr. Firoozi is under severe physical and psychological pressure in Evin prison to accept false allegations.

RAHANA – Human rights activist, Dr. Hesam Firoozi is continually under severe pressure in Tehran’s Evin prison to accept false allegations. Following a prison visit in March, Dr. Firoozi’s wife said that he had lost about 20 kilograms in less than a month.

A recently released prisoner of Evin’s Ward 2A informed RAHANA, that Dr. Firoozi has been subject to harsh physical and psychological torture to confess and accept false allegations.

According to the released prisoner, other human rights activists are also under pressure and are being tortured at Ward 2A, which is under the supervision of the Revolutionary Guards. Currently a number of rights activists are detained in Ward 2A, including Abdolreza Ahmadi, Abolfazl Abedini, Alireza Firoozi, Milad Ebrahimian, and Mohammad Reza Lotfi, amongst others.

Blogger and human rights activist, Dr. Hesam Firoozi was arrested and taken to Evin on March 3, 2010, during a wave of arrests targeting human rights activists nationwide.

Dr. Firoozi has only called his family once since his arrest. On March 22nd, his wife visited him with the presence of [security] agents. Since that date his family has had no news of him and is increasingly concerned about his condition. Judicial authorities refuse to answer the family’s inquiries.

Abolfazl Abedini’s Mother Writes Open Letter to Sadegh Larijani

Clicking on the picture will lead you to the petition for Abolfaz Abedini. Free Abolfaz Abedini!

SIGN THE PETITION FOR ABOLFAZL ABEDINI

Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA)The mother of journalist and human rights activist Abolfazl Abedini Nasr wrote an open letter to the minister of Iran’s judiciary, requesting a fair resolve to the tormenting situation of Abolfazl Abedini in prison.

Abolfazl Abedini Nasr’s home was raided and he was brutally beaten and subdued on March 3, 2010 in the city of Ahvaz. He was later transferred to Evin prison.

Open Letter from Asareh Eyvazi to Sadegh Larijani :

Honorable Ayatollah Sadegh Amoli Larijani, head of the judicial system in the Islamic Republic of Iran:

With regards and wishing you a happy New Year. I am the mother of journalist Abolfazl Abedini. I have been witness to his imprisonment while he [continues to suffer] from poor health. His physical and emotional condition is questionable.

For five years, Abolfazl has been arrested, imprisoned, tortured, and detained in solitary confinement. [Each time] he has posted bail for his freedom with the help of compassionate individuals. In the court hearings, Abolfazl was never found guilty and he was always cleared of all charges.

What crime has he committed that he deserves to be tortured? Is defending the rights of Haft Tapeh factory workers, drivers union workers, and other organizations a crime? Is highlighting the problems in our country a crime?

I want you, the Supreme judge, with all fairness and in the presence of God, to pay special attention to my 28 year old child who suffers from a severe heart problem as a result of being held captive for the past five years. I would like you to resolve the abeyance.

I want you to be advised that if anything happens to [my son], you will be held responsible before God, the merciful.

I should also mention that Abolfazl is [currently] held in solitary confinement in ward 2A of the IRGC section of Evin prison. He has been denied the right to meet with a lawyer. It has been a month now that Abolfazl is being interrogated.

With respect,

Asareh Eyvazi, the suffering mother of detained journalist Abolfazl Abedini Nasr.

Translation by: Roxanne K | Persian2English.com

Several Journalists Severely Ill in Evin Prison

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Reporters Without Borders is extremely worried about the appalling conditions in which Iranian prisoners of conscience, including many journalists, are being held. The authorities continue to detain them arbitrarily even when they are ailing and in very poor physical or psychological health.

“The lives of many journalists are now in danger,” Reporters Without Borders said. “Emadoldin Baghi, Badrolssadat Mofidi, Mehdi Mahmudian and Mohammad Sadegh Kabovand are seriously ill. We call for their unconditional and definitive release. We appeal to the Iranian authorities to act so that these lives are no longer at risk. We will hold them responsible for any misfortune.”

READ THE FULL STORY

Interview with woman on death row Akram Mahdavi: “I am Happy with Death”


Committee of Human Rights Reporters (CHRR) – In August 2006, Akram Mahdavi’s [second] husband was killed and she is a co-defendant in the case. She recently wrote a letter to Haj Kazem, the director of Rajai Shahr prison. Mahdavi stated that she “cannot endure the tortures in prison anymore.” She has demanded for her case to be reviewed as soon as possible. She has also requested to be executed if she does not receive a pardon from the victim’s family.

[Translator note: In Islamic Sharia law, the family of a murder victim has the right to choose between Qesas, an eye for an eye (execution), or blood money in exchange for the life of the accused to be spared]


The interview has been conducted by Saba Vasefi, an activist for the rights of women and children.

Vasefi: Why did you attempt to kill your husband?

Mahdavi: I was 13 years old when I was forced to marry my cousin. When I realized he had also married a wealthier older woman, we got divorced. After he became a [drug] addict, I gained custody of my daughter. I took my eleven year old daughter with me to my second husband’s home, but she was always complaining about her step-father. She said that he “[sexually] touched and abused” her. Even one night, he went in my daughter’s bedroom [insinuating that some form of misconduct took place].

My [second] husband was 75 years old and I was 21. I was never happy with him, nor liked him. I was poor so I endured his harassment. However, when the safety of my daughter was in stake, I could not tolerate it any longer.

My family is really poor. I have five brothers and two sisters. One of my sister’s has hemiplegia and I have epilepsy. My family was just thinking of a way to have one less dependant. My second husband did not inform me he also has other wives; his children told me about them. One of his wives is in Khomein (in the province of Markazi, central Iran), the other one lives in Tehran. Another one is the mother of the children who are now seeking Qesas. Their mother has passed away. I was his fourth wife. Deep down, I was happy with my second husband. He was taking care of me after all. If it weren’t for him, who would have supported me and my daughter?

Vasefi: Did you ever try to get a divorce from your second husband?

Mahdavi: Yes, I tried, but I didn’t succeed. I remember when I went to the court, the judge asked, “What hasn’t he given you that you want a divorce?” I replied, “It’s not a matter of finance. He is 75 years old and I am embarrassed to walk with him in the street. [My family] forced me to marry this old man. I tell everyone he is my father-in-law. My daughter is young and he is subjecting her to inappropriate conduct.” The judge, however, did not listen to me at all. He only addressed my husband’s concerns.

Vasefi: Why did your husband not agree to give you a divorce?

Mahdavi: Well, I was younger than his other wives.

Vasefi: How did you murder your husband?

Mahdavi: My accomplice brought me 30 Diazepam pills. My daughter went to school and my husband went to work. At 11:00am, my accomplice came over and hid in the closet. I had changed my mind, but he encouraged me [to go forward with the plan]. He reminded me of my husband’s bad traits. At 1:00pm, my husband returned home. After he drank the beverage containing the pills, he fell asleep.

My accomplice advised me to stab him. I replied that I cannot. He responded, “If you don’t, I will kill you along with your husband.” I threw the knife and it hit my husband’s neck. He woke up and said, “Akram, has somebody broken in?” I replied, “No.” Then, my accomplice stabbed him 36 times. After killing my husband, he punched the wall with his bloody hand and said, “He was a tough one to kill.”

I fled home and left my daughter with my aunt. When I returned, the accomplice had burned everything. Out of fear, I fled to the north of Iran. I called my daughter. She had also drunk from the same beverage. She was crying, “Haji is dead, I don`t know who killed Haji.”

Vasefi: Do you think the sentence issued to you is a fair one?

Mahdavi: The court should not have condemned me to Qesas (the death penalty). I did not even stab him. The accomplice should have received it.

Vasefi: Why did your accomplice insist on murdering your husband?

Mahdavi: I think he knew my husband and had some feud over a bad account. My husband was an antique seller.

Vasefi: How were you arrested?

Mahdavi: I turned myself in. Three days later, my dad took me from Tehran to Azna so I can begin my detention in Lorestan, the province I am from. When I went to the justice department in Azna, the [officials] told me, “You have to turn yourself in to the Tehran Ministry of Intelligence, because they are looking for you.” Then, we had to return to Tehran. At 12:00am, my dad turned me in to the Shapoor [police station].

Vasefi: How many days were you held in the Shapoor [police station]?

Mahdavi: I was there nine days and I was constantly punched and kicked.

Vasefi: Given that you handed yourself in, how did the head case officer treat you?

Mahdavi: The officer in charge of my case was Mr. Darzi. He beat me up. They hung me upside down from the ceiling in a dark room. They broke three of my teeth.

Darzi would hit me in the face and ask [rhetorically], “You want a younger husband?” One time, I slapped him back because of the insults he was using against me. [As a consequence], they hung me from my hands, which were handcuffed behind my back. After that, they took me to the Vozara detention centre. There was an old lady who, God bless her soul, gave me food and water.

I would like to ask why no trial has been held for Mr. Darzi? Why has he not been punished? Where in the law does it state that when an accused is arrested, you have the right to beat her up savagely? My crime was clear. I even confessed and turned myself in. The punishment is also clear. Where in the law does it state that the [prison officials] have the right to beat a person like they are not human? Mr. Darzi insulted me by using vulgar language that can only suit himself. I did what I did to defend my daughter. If there is a God and a law, why does it only apply to us? God and the law have to be shown to them as well. Where in the law does it state that the interrogator is permitted to make a pass at the accused? Darzi told me, “Be my Siqeh [a wife for a Shia Islamic temporary marriage].”

Vasefi: When you complained about Mr. Darzi, did his behaviour change toward you?

Mahdavi: My file got handed over to case officer Boostani. He was a respected man. He would only beat me up and did not use vulgar words.

Vasefi: How many years have you been in jail?

Mahdavi: Five years. I am 34 years old. The victim’s family wants [approximately] $30,000 [USD]. I do not even have anybody who would come and visit me, let alone put that sum of money together. I am happy with death.

Vasefi: By the way, how did they find your accomplice?

Mahdavi: I did not have his address. I didn’t even know he had a family. Before they found my accomplice Behnam Zarei, they insisted that I committed the murder with the assistance of my brother. Then I remembered once I drove with my accomplice on the Qom Highway and we had a car accident. He had given his insurance and personal information to the tow truck company.

Vasefi: After your divorce from your first husband, did you work? Are you skilled in a specific trade?

Mahdavi: With the help of one of my friends, I gained a certificate in hair styling and I opened a salon.

Vasefi: Have you ever been taken to the gallows?

Mahdavi: Yes, once.

Vasefi: How was the exectuion stopped?

Mahdavi: One night at 6:00pm, Ms. Esmaeil Zadeh sent for me. She said that I had a trial date. I knew she was lying, and they wanted to carry out the sentence. I said my goodbye’s and asked for forgiveness. They took me to the solitary hall. That night, October 10, 2009, Behnood Shojaee was with me too. I went to perform the ablution [Ghusl]. At 3 AM, they took me to the gallows. When we were there, the director of the women’s ward told me, “Your lawyer has been able to obtain consent from the victim’s family to postpone your execution date.” I resembled a dead soul. They took me back to the ward. I will never forget that my family did not even come to be with me during the [attempted] execution. If they had not discriminated against their daughters, I would not be here [in the first place].

Translation by: Siavosh J. | Persian2English.com

Jafar Panahi’s Family Writes Letter: “Maybe You Are More Free in Prison”


Director Jafar Panahi’s wife and two children published a letter for him.

Jafar Panahi was arrested in early March at his house. He is currently detained in Evin prison.

The Kaleme website reports that each member of the family wrote their own personal text.

The following is the full text of the letter:

No, Jafar! the answer is no. You asked all of us as a joke and we all ignored the question, until the moment they came to our house and answered it. They were in our house and we were each in a corner. They searched everywhere in the house, but we were still standing in our corners with our hands bound. [Your] computer, camera, films, notes, and notebooks were all taken away, but it didn’t matter. I just wanted them to not be there so we can look at each other for a moment. I knew your eyes were looking for me and Solmaz.

When they were done, we finally found each other. All you could do was raise your bound hands and flash me a smile. God knows I did my best to make my smile bigger and to raise my hands higher. I thought of telling you, “It doesn’t matter, at least we are with each other: me, you, and Solmaz.” It is alright, we are always with each other. But God knows how hard I tried to put a smile on my face to hide my sadness. You always jokingly asked us, “Can one not be free in his house?”

==

Auntie died when I was little. I remember looking at you and thinking, Why is dad not sad that his sister has died? It took me a while to understand that you might be sad, but you never cried. You might be sad for a lot of things: for them [the regime] not letting your movies to be screened, for you staying home for four years, for enduring thousands of threats and bans, for them [the regime] not letting you travel abroad, for them interrogating you, and for them asking you not to think about and talk about what matters to you. Even your closest friends have asked you to be silent.

There may have been points when the smallest things in life made you sad, but you never cried. Whenever you had a reason to cry, you didn’t, until the day when you finally cried. I never thought I would be the reason for your sadness.

The night when they tried to take us away from our home, you wanted to talk. One of them was standing above us in the corridor. He was standing there for you to finish what you were saying. He made you nervous. You raised your hands to caress my face, but it wasn’t possible with bound hands. That is when you cried, “Solmaz, I am sorry that this happened because of me. Promise me you won’t be scared. Please don’t be scared.” I laughed. Me and fear? Hell no! For what? ”Daddy, promise you won’t smoke, ok? It would be a shame [to smoke] now that you have quit.” I tried my best to talk and laugh so I hid my sadness. You could have cried all these years, but you didn’t. And now, you stand in front of me with a wet face.

==

If you think that while you have been away I am feeling better, you are wrong. I am feeling maybe worse, but not better. Nobody bothers to ask me, “Panah, why are you so silent? You don’t don’t talk to anyone.” We didn’t talk much. I thought I knew better than anybody why you didn’t feel like talking; you, who loves cinema, were not working and had to stay home. I understood, but I was silent too and didn’t tell you any of this. That night I walked the streets late. I was thinking about you finally making movies [again]. I was happy that you made the decision [to not make films], because film making for you meant the return of energy and life and breaking the damn silence. I walked and thought that I will be with you in a few minutes.

I was happy when I was nearing the house. The alley was crowded. A crowd of people stood there with their wireless phones. There were also two black vans. I hid behind a tree at the entrance of the alley and looked on. Then some people began to emerge [from the house] with bound hands. All the film crew boarded the van, so did you, mom, and Solmaz. I was shocked. The vans reversed out of the alley and drove off. It was all like a movie. In the next scene, I was in a disrupted and empty house. I noticed film equipment and a movie they never let you finish remaining [in the house]. The [unfinished] movie was a narrative of a family. It was different than your other movies that took place in the heart of society. If the movie was made, it could have been the most personal movie you ever made. The final scene [of the movie I was in] was of silence that filled the house.

==

A lot of people came to our house. We each sat in a corner. I had my hands on my feet while I looked at them. I was thinking, what kind of a New Year is this? A few minutes before the New Year, my hands are bound and I feel more alone than ever sitting here without you. Solmaz and I were released a few days after [our arrest], but you remained detained. This is how we spent the last month of the year: a few hours a day in front of the prison waiting for you. The families of prisoners who were being released stood in front of the prison gates. We all clapped for them and they raised their hands and waved the sign of freedom.

We were waiting for you to come down the stairs with your free hands in the air. We came every day and the number of people in front of the prison decreased. On the afternoon of the last day of the year, your cell mate was released. We were alone standing by the closed prison gate. What kind of a new year is this that they didn’t even let us spend it with you, even in front of the prison gate? They sent us home with humilation and insults. We thought of you at that moment in the new year.

All our friends came to our house for the New Year, but this only hurt us more because you were not there. Even if the entire world came to see us, we would still feel your absence. Two minutes before the New Year, I went on the balcony and cried. You are not here and I have no energy to smile to hide my sadness. It is as if nobody is ever free. When the New Year comes, I will be walking with you in prison.

==

There is always a reason to cry. Dad, I am not like you to see the reasons and still keep intact. They hurt you and I cry. They take you to prison and I cry. You stay in prison and I cry. The New Year comes while you are imprisoned and I cry. I live in a place where my New Year gift is my dad imprisoned. This is the first year that I didn’t want the New Year to come. And now that it has, I wish for it to end soon.

Holidays are more bitter than work days. During work days, at least there is hope to go forward and be free. But holidays mean total hopelessness. Sometimes, one person can fill the feeling of solitude. When that person is not there, and even if thousands of others are, you still feel more alone. There are a lot of friends in our house, but my attention is on the empty place [where you would have sat]. Do you remember how much we used to fight over that space? When you weren’t around, I would sit there and use the Internet. And now the chair is empty, but I have no desire to sit in it. I told you that there is always a reason to cry. Just looking at the chair makes me cry. I am not like you dad, not at all.

==

Since you left, I have become worse. I don’t talk with people much. I walk the dead alleys on our street. I walk around the house. I feel everywhere I go is like a movie scene and I am always present when the film crew gets arrested and taken away. With every moment of silence without you, I grow and realize that you have always been imprisoned. You told me once, “When they let me work, it is like I am in prison.”

Now I wish to see you so I can talk to you and let you know that I understand that you have been imprisoned before your arrest and that is why you didn’t talk to people. I understand that for someone who regarded cinema as part of their life, not working is like a prison. Wherever you went could have been a great spot for filming, but they didn’t let you work.

Now you are actually in prison and sitting in your cell. I don’t know, maybe you are more free now.

Happy New Year

Tahereh Saeedi (Panahi’s wife), Solmaz Panahi (Panahi’s daughter), and Panah Panahi (Panahi’s son)


Translation by: Arash Azizi | Persian2English.com

Baha’i Brothers Arrested for Second Time


Human Rights Activities News Agency (HRANA) – Two Baha’i citizens Soheil Rouhanifard and Behnam Rouhanifard have been arrested. According to HRANA, they were arrested once before earlier in the year and sentenced to nine months in prison by the Revolutionary Court in Yazd. They were [eventually] released.

On March 29, 2010 at 8:00pm, they were re-arrested in Yazd by security officials.

Translation by: Omid G. | Persian2English.com

Quranic Sciences Professor Arrested During Funeral for Montazer’s Wife


Professor Rahmatollah Bastani arrested during the funeral for Ayatollah Montazeri’s wife.

RAHANA – 51 year old professor Rahmatollah Bastani was arrested on March 28, 2010 after attending the funeral for Mahsoltan Rabani, Ayatollah Montazeri’s wife.

Bastani was released on the same day after interrogation, but he was arrested again on March 29, 2010 after the Ministry of Intelligence in Qom telephoned him.

Rahmatollah Bastani lives in Qom and holds a master’s degree in theology from the University of Tehran. He has been teaching Quranic Sciences in Sistan and Baluchestan University for more than 20 years.

The [News agency] Jaras reports that Bastani used to study electrical engineering in Ariamehr Industrial University (now called Sharif University of Technology) before the Revolution. After the Revolution, he received his master’s in theology and Islamic science.

When the universities were closed down after the Revolution, he worked for a time in the prime minister’s office under Rajayi and Mousavi.

More than 30 people were arrested at the funeral. More than ten people are yet to be released [from detention].

Translation by: Arash Azizi | Persian2English.com