(WiPC/IFEX) – On 17 November 2002, Professor Hashem Aghajari’s lawyer, Saleh Nikbakht, announced that Ayatollah Ali Khameni had ordered Iran’s chief judge to review the death sentence handed down to the academic. The order was reportedly issued following protests by hundreds of university teachers and students, and is thought to be likely to lead to […]
(WiPC/IFEX) – On 17 November 2002, Professor Hashem Aghajari’s lawyer, Saleh Nikbakht, announced that Ayatollah Ali Khameni had ordered Iran’s chief judge to review the death sentence handed down to the academic. The order was reportedly issued following protests by hundreds of university teachers and students, and is thought to be likely to lead to the sentence being overturned. However, Aghajari may still be required to face the remaining sentence of 74 lashes of the whip, eight years’ imprisonment and internal exile, and a 10-year prohibition from teaching.
The academic’s death sentence for apostasy was handed down on 9 November.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to authorities:
– welcoming the Ayatollah’s decision to order the reconsideration of the death sentence recently handed down to Aghajari
– expressing grave concern that Aghajari’s health is rapidly deteriorating and that he may not be receiving the correct medical attention in detention
– urging them to overturn the whole sentence handed down to Aghajari and thus permit his unconditional release, in accordance with their obligation to protect the right to freedom of expression, as guaranteed by the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights
Appeals To
His Excellency Ayatollah Sayed Ali Khameni
The Presidency
Palestine Avenue
Azerbaijan Intersection
Tehran, Islamic Republic of IranHis Excellency Hojjatoleslam Sayed Mohammad Khatami
The Presidency
Palestine Avenue
Azerbaijan Intersection
Tehran, Islamic Republic of IranPlease note that there are no fax numbers available for the Iranian authorities, so you may wish to ask the diplomatic representative for Iran in your country to forward your appeals. It would also be advantageous to ask your country’s diplomatic representatives in Iran to intervene in the case.
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
