Iranian rapper Toomaj Salehi released after death sentence is overturned. Image: @toomajofficial shared via Instagram.
(The Post News)- Toomaj Salehi, a 32-year-old Iranian activist and dissident rapper, has been set free from prison after 753 days of incarceration. Salehi’s global legal team announced his release on Monday, generating widespread relief and joy among his backers.
Salehi was first detained in October 2022 for utilizing his music to advocate for protests in Iran, which were sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini while in police custody. He faced accusations of inciting violence and received a death sentence in April from a revolutionary court. However, in June 2024, Iran’s supreme court reversed his death penalty due to ongoing pressure from human rights groups and prominent individuals.
During his detention, Salehi claimed he was subjected to torture, such as beatings that caused fractures to his hands and leg, and prolonged periods of solitary confinement. Despite these challenges, Salehi remained committed to his activism, using his music as a powerful tool to speak out against the Iranian regime.
Salehi and his family were unaware that he would soon be free; therefore, his release was unexpected. According to the rapper’s representative, Negin Niknaam, “Toomaj himself didn’t know he was going to be released.” Selehi was informed at 23:30 that he would be released effective immediately.
Salehi thanked his fan through a social media post, in which he stated that during the last two years, they had done things for him that were unexpected, magnificent, and unbelievable. The strength of global pressure and the steadfast support of his supporters and fellow activists are evidence of his release.
His case serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by activists and dissidents in Iran. The United States has imposed sanctions on 12 Iranian officials over human rights abuses, and human rights organizations continue to push for greater accountability and protections for those who dare to speak out against the regime.
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