Iranian rapper Tomaj Salehi spared death penalty, faces retrial amid international outcry

Iranian rapper Tomaj Salehi spared death penalty, faces retrial amid international outcry (Tomaj Salehi / Instagram Profile)

ALBAWABA - An Iranian court reversed rapper Tomaj Salehi's death sentence after more than a year and a half in jail. Salehi was convicted for inciting riots after Mahsa Amini's murder in September 2022. His lawyer, Amir Reissian, affirmed the Supreme Court's death penalty abolition and demanded a retrial in a similar court.

Salehi's social media tweets and rap songs supported the protest movement after Amini's murder in police custody for breaching Iran's severe dress restrictions for women. Inciting unrest, "corruption on earth," and official propaganda were charged against Salehi by Iran. His case garnered international artist support.

The October and November 2022 demonstrations killed hundreds, including security personnel, and arrested thousands before fading. Non-governmental groups reported nine protesters executed. Salehi was arrested in October 2022 while trying to flee Iran after being condemned to death.

Salehi's relatives said he was arrested in Gerdabechi, Chaharmahal, and Bakhtiari, contrary to officials' allegations. Salehi said he was tortured and had his limbs shattered in detention for criticizing the authorities in his songs. His imprisonment was part of a larger crackdown on journalists, lawyers, intellectuals, and civil society.

Salehi has become a symbol of resistance to official tyranny as the Iranian court has been criticized for its treatment of dissent.

Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).