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Iranian Journalist arrested in crackdown

As he was being dragged from his house, Emadeddin vowed to his terrified wife and daughter. “I will remain strong in prison”. His brave words were met with an ominous threat from his abductors: “You won’t live long enough in prison to need to remain strong.”

In December 2009, armed officials forced their way into Emadeddin Baghi’s home in Iran. Refusing to show identification, they arrested the Iranian journalist and severely beat his brother-in-law, who was also present.

Baghi's arrest is part of a campaign of intimidation and repression following widespread street demonstrations across Iran after the June election that saw the incumbent president Iranian police have cracked down on political opposition,and tightly restricted the free press. Numerous Iranian journalists and bloggers have been arrested. Many were sentenced to hefty prison terms after grossly unfair trials.

Emadeddin is a prominent human rights activist and journalist in Iran. Because of his work, he has endured harsh prison sentences several times over the past decade, and now he is one of the many Iranian journalists and activists detained during the violent crackdown in December. Emadeddin has serious health issues due to previous imprisonments, and Amnesty International is deeply concerned for his well-being and safety.

Please send a message to the Iranian authorities demanding that Emadeddin Baghi be released.

Howzeh Riyasat-e Qoveh Qazaiyeh Head of the Judiciary Islamic Republic of Iran Your Excellency, I am writing to you to express my concern about the arrest of prominent human rights activist Emadeddin Baghi on 28 December 2009, following protests in Tehran and other cities marking 'Ashura. I am particularly concerned because Mr Baghi suffers from poor health and he could be subjected to ill-treatment and medical neglect while in detention. During his previous imprisonment from October 2007 to October 2008, he suffered seizures and a heart attack and was denied access to the toilet, leading to kidney problems. He did not receive adequate medical treatment. He has been repeatedly persecuted by the Iranian authorities for his peaceful advocacy for human rights; his Association for the Defense of Prisoners' Rights was shut down in September 2009 and he was prevented from receiving the prestigious Martin Ennals award for human rights activists in November 2009. I urge that while in detention, Emadeddin Baghi be given access to his family, to his lawyer, and to any necessary medical attention. I also urge you to ensure that he is not subjected to torture or other ill-treatment. Finally, Emadeddin Baghi is a prisoner of conscience, and I therefore call for his immediate and unconditional release. Thank you for your attention. Add your own personal message: Sincerely,		812 signatures have been added to this petition for Emadeddin Baghi. Below are a sample of the personal messages that have been sent by individuals voicing their concern for his imprisonment. Let's create a safe and peaceful world for all. Kate Your personal attention to this matter is greatly appreciated. Godo Edmonton, AB The world cares, the world watches. Kinga Vancouver, BC HEAR HIS CRY FOR OTHER PEOPLE! Evelyn Calgary, AB This type of tyranny can no longer go without notice and action. In the 21st century such atrocities are mind boggling. Rhiannon Sarah Victoria, BC Click here to view the full listing of public petition signatures.
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