Dozens of Families Demand Unconditional Release of Tomaj Salehi

A group of grieving families in the Kurdish regions of Iran condemned the 'unjust' death sentence issued for Tomaj Salehi and called for his unconditional release in a statement. This statement, issued by at least 80 families, expressed concern over the execution of prisoners at risk of execution and referred to Tomaj Salehi, a detained protest rapper, as an artist who has not only been able to be 'the voice of his generation' but has also recognized various layers of oppression and, in his own words, 'become the voice of the grassroots.' These families consider Tomaj Salehi to be a 'great asset' and emphasized that 'the Islamic Republic not only intends to silence him with the death sentence but also wants to tell others that the price of freedom and the demand for equality is heavy.' The statement, published on the Hengaw Human Rights Organization website, called on all grieving families and the people of Iran to 'raise their voices in any way they can against the death sentence of Tomaj Salehi.' The families also expressed concern about the potential execution of Reza Rasayi, a political prisoner, and other inmates at risk of execution, urging all political prisoners, activists, and civil and human rights organizations to unite against these sentences and emphasize 'the unconditional freedom' of Tomaj Salehi. The news of the death sentence for Tomaj Salehi has led to a wave of protests both inside and outside Iran. Many artists, activists, and civil and human rights organizations have called for the cancellation of this sentence, and Iranians in various countries have held protests. In response to these protests, the Islamic Republic authorities have imposed new restrictions on Tomaj Salehi in Dastgerd Prison in Isfahan. His phone calls have been cut off since Saturday, May 8, and he has been banned from moving within the prison, talking to other inmates, and accessing the library and sports facilities. The Independent Filmmakers Association of Iran stated that the Islamic Republic fears 'freedom of art and expression.' New restrictions have been imposed on Tomaj Salehi in prison as punishment for informing the public. Ten political prisoners protested against the death sentence of Tomaj Salehi, warning of the possibility of 'governmental murder' of seven other prisoners. There is widespread global support for Tomaj Salehi, with protesting retirees in Ahvaz stating: 'Tomaj is a nation; free the nation.'