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Iranian rapper Toomaj Salehi sentenced to death
Iranian rapper Toomaj Salehi has been handed a death sentence for his involvement in the protests that erupted following the tragic death of Mahsa Amini. Amini, a 22-year-old woman, died in the custody of Iran’s morality police after being detained for not wearing her hijab properly. Salehi, known for his critical rap lyrics against the Iranian regime, was detained, held in solitary confinement and allegedly tortured after his arrest.
The court in Isfahan recently reversed the Supreme Court’s decision on Salehi’s case, upholding the original verdict of “corruption on earth” and sentencing him to death. Salehi’s lawyer, Amir Raesian, announced that an order for his execution has been issued. The rapper’s sentence could potentially be reduced by a pardoning committee if he decides to appeal again.
Salehi’s music, including protest songs like ‘Mouse Hole’, ‘Turkmenchay’ and ‘Pomegranate’, have been known to criticize Iran’s societal issues and government policies.
His arrest is part of a larger crackdown on dissenting voices in Iran, with other artists like Kurdish-Iranian rapper Saman Yasin also facing persecution for their opposition to the government. Yasin was sentenced to five years in prison and was even taken to a psychiatric hospital twice in less than a year.
Human rights organizations and international bodies have condemned Salehi’s death sentence and called for his immediate release. The United States’ Office of the Special Envoy for Iran and UN experts have both urged Iranian authorities to reverse the decision. The Recording Academy has also expressed deep concern over the sentencing, stating that no artist should have to fear for their life or livelihood when expressing themselves through their art.
German Member of Parliament Ye-One Rhie, who serves as Salehi’s political sponsor in Europe, called the death sentence “absurd and inhumane” and criticized the Iranian regime for its arbitrary treatment of defendants. She highlighted the lack of transparency and due process in Iranian courts, questioning the rule of law in such circumstances.
Salehi’s case has reignited the debate on artistic freedom and freedom of expression in Iran. Artists across the globe have come out in support of Salehi, emphasizing the importance of music as a force for good in the world. The ongoing crackdown on dissent in Iran underscores the challenges faced by artists and activists who dare to speak out against oppressive regimes.
