We write this petition seeking justice for 31-year-old Majid Khademi, who was initially detained amidst the 2019 protests in Behbahan City, Khuzestan province. Following a harrowing period of two months characterized by intense interrogation, physical torture, and solitary confinement, he was additionally subjected to prolonged incarceration and uncertainty in Behbahan prison. Ultimately, on June 15, 2021, the Ministry of Intelligence of the Islamic Republic of Iran released Majid Khademi, setting bail of 3.5 billion Tomans. He faced many charges, including "propaganda against the state, membership in enemy groups, disruption of public order, damage to public property, collusion against national security, rebellion, and corruption on Earth." After one year of conditional release, he was re-arrested and relocated to Sheiban Prison in Ahvaz, where he was again obliged to post bail for temporary freedom.
Regrettably, the first branch of the Islamic Revolutionary Court of Bandar Mahshahr has now presented Mr. Khademi's legal representation with new charges. As per the document, Majid Khademi has been condemned to ten years and one month of imprisonment, two years of exile to the city of Taft in Yazd province, a two-year prohibition on political and social activities, and a further two-year restriction on leaving the country.
Today, after enduring three years of persistent fear, multiple arrests, continuous surveillance, and financial instability owing to the burdensome bail, Majid Khademi anxiously awaits the finalization of his harsh sentence. Majid Khademi is not a criminal; he is a peaceful protester subjected to these punitive measures merely for exercising his right to dissent. As signatories of this petition, we demand the rescindment of the disproportionate prison sentences and the cancellation of the decree to exile Majid Khademi.
Date: June 1, 2023
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