Tomaj Salehi's Case Returned to Prosecutor's Office Due to Deficiencies in Charges

Tomaj Salehi's lawyer announced that the case of this dissenting singer has been returned to the prosecutor's office for further investigation. Amir Reysian, in an interview with 'Shahrak Network' on Saturday, May 9, emphasized that more than a month after the court's order, the prosecutor's office has yet to take any action. Amir Reysian listed the charges against Tomaj Salehi as corruption on earth, propaganda against the regime, collaboration with hostile governments, inciting people to violence and unrest, and insulting the leadership. This lawyer expressed ignorance about the charges raised in the court regarding Tomaj Salehi's case and stated that since the case was returned to the prosecutor's office, lawyers have been denied access to the case. Tomaj Salehi, a protest rap singer, was arrested last November after announcing support for protesters and was pursued by security forces. This imprisoned protester was deprived of access to his chosen lawyer for two months, and judicial authorities in Isfahan formed a four-volume case against him, bringing serious charges such as corruption on earth. Those accused of corruption on earth in Iran face the death penalty. Some observers consider Tomaj Salehi to be more than just a singer, labeling him a civil activist who has been protesting against the conditions in Iranian society for about two years. Nasir Mashkouri, a writer and music critic, described Tomaj Salehi's 'revolutionary performance' and 'courage' as creating a sense of danger for the Iranian government. The violent arrest of Tomaj Salehi, along with torture and prolonged solitary confinement, has led to international criticism. The U.S. State Department's deputy spokesperson, Vedant Patel, called for his immediate release last month, referring to the 'torture and abuse' of this dissenting singer. A member of the German parliament, Yeh-Youn Ri, who has taken on the political sponsorship of Tomaj Salehi, expressed concern about the situation of this imprisoned singer last December. Tomaj's cousin has requested Jill Biden to 'be the voice of Tomaj; he does not belong in prison.' The continued travel bans on several artists supporting the nationwide protests in Iran and the U.S. State Department's call for Tomaj Salehi's release highlight the ongoing cultural and artistic repression in the country. Currently, Tomaj Salehi is reported to be 'well' and wishes for a 'good year' for the people.