What’s happening in Iran? Rapper Toomaj Salehi is facing a potential death penalty for charges of “corruption on earth,” which is a broadly defined crime encompassing various social and political offenses. His social media accounts showcase videos of his political activism, and his music contains explicitly political lyrics. Despite his political involvement, it is unjust for him to face the death penalty.
There are growing concerns that execution may be imminent, as reports on Twitter indicate that the Iranian rapper has been severely beaten, prompting the #FREETOOMAJ campaign. However, no execution date has been set thus far. On December 6, authorities released a confession video in which Salehi acknowledges that music can incite violence and expresses remorse for any harm he may have caused to society.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Toomaj Salehi | توماج صالحی (@toomajofficial)
باوجود احتمال از دست رفتن بینایی چشم #توماج_صالحی در اثر ضربات وارد شده، او از خانواده درخواست کرده برایش کتاب ببرند تا بخواند.
هنرمندی با این روحیات ۶۹روز است که با اتهامات بی‌اساس در انفرادیست. درصورت ازدست رفتن بینایی او این قصور متوجه مسئولان ذیربط خواهد بود.#FreeToomajPIC.TWITTER.COM/LSHWAS4YD6
— توماج صالحی🌋 (@OfficialToomaj) January 6, 2023
Rappers often become the sole advocates for justice within their communities. Adi Ghaemi, the Executive Director of the Center for Human Rights in Iran based in New York, does not have much optimism regarding Toomaj’s chances of survival. According to Ghaemi, the courts lack fairness as there is no proper investigation, due process, or the right to defense or independent counsel. These courtrooms fail to uphold justice as they lack essential elements required for a fair trial.
Looks like Iran has taken “Cancel Culture” to another level!
#FREETOOMAJ