Keyvan Samimi: I Have New Responsibilities

Keyvan Samimi, a political and human rights activist, journalist, and editor-in-chief of the monthly "Nameh," has been imprisoned both during the Pahlavi era and the Islamic Republic. Mr. Samimi, who was arrested one day after the controversial 2009 elections, was released from Rajai Shahr prison in Karaj on Saturday. The charges against Keyvan Samimi included conspiracy to undermine national security, propaganda against the regime, and participating in illegal gatherings. These charges resulted in a six-year prison sentence and a permanent ban from political activities. In an interview with Radio Farda, he was first asked about his feelings regarding freedom after six years in prison. Keyvan Samimi expressed that upon his release, he felt a sense of responsibilities that had ended and new responsibilities that had begun, which he must now think about and act upon after six years. This is a heavy burden that each political prisoner carries. When asked what kind of activities he plans to start or continue after his release, he stated that prior to 2009, his activities were within the framework of the Constitution, despite having many criticisms. He mentioned that during the early years of the Islamic Republic, especially in the 1980s when horrific crimes occurred, he had a reformist and legal approach. He reached a point where his political activities needed to be reduced in favor of more human rights activities, particularly emphasizing ethics, which he sees as a missing link in the democracy movement. When asked if his six years in prison had affected his political, social, or cultural views, he replied that his framework of beliefs had not changed, stating that six years is not a long time. He recalled his first imprisonment 49 years ago during the Shah's regime when he was an 18-year-old, feeling a responsibility to strive for change and reform. He believes that the environment continues to be one of human rights violations. He still considers himself a human rights activist and feels he must work for the rights of people, emphasizing that in the remaining years of his life, he believes ethics should be prioritized even more. When asked if he fears being imprisoned again for his beliefs, he stated that the government has determined it is not in its interest (not in the interest of the people or national interests) to return to the atmosphere of 2009. He quoted, "If we were afraid of losing our heads, we would not dance in the gathering of lovers," asserting that this will remain his motto for life.