Statement on the widespread arrests and imposition of restrictions on freedom of political expressionAs the consequences of the failed economic and political policies of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and its catastrophic implications for the livelihoods of ordinary people became clearer, people's anger in response to these failed policies expressed itself on the street and social resistance mounted. The regime responded with repression and mass arrests became a daily occurrence.Over recent days hundreds of people have been arrested on the basis of fabricated lies and invented stories but in reality because the arrested individuals had participated in demonstrations opposing these failed policies. At the beginning of last December, in Sulimanyia province, the security forces used tear gas and live ammunition to counter the unarmed demonstrators, and this resulted in more than 7 deaths and dozens of injuries.
On 26th December 2020 the security forces of the NazNaz station in the city of Erbil arrested a young medical student, Mr. Mazen Jamela, who is in his fifth year at medical college. Since then, he has hd no access to his lawyer or family and it is impossible to obtain any news about his whereabouts.This is at a time when both Mr. Badal Barwary, Sherwan Sherwani along with tens of others who were arrested have simply disappeared, as have many others in Erbil and Suaimanyia provinces.Herewith, we wish to alert the general public, the international community and International human rights organizations of the situation in the region. On top of imposing policies of oppression, the regime tolerates the existence of widespread poverty and unemployment. There is a lack of social injustice, no basic social and health care or economic security. The regime has banned the right of peaceful protest and has removed all opportunities and space for political expression.We, the undersigned, call upon the authority to:Release all political prisoners and those who have been recently arrested
Cease using the brutal and repressive measures that been implemented by sections of the security forces and call upon the ruling parties to cease suppressing and insulting the dignity of the people who are demanding their right to protest peacefully.
Cease using repressive security measures to prevent the people from protesting about administrative corruption and failed policies.
In the light of these frightening political and repressive developments and in order to defend freedom of expression, as well as political and economical rights, uphold the sanctity of life especially of those who are facing arbitrary arrest and repression, we call upon everyone to join us in establishing a wide solidarity and support campaign both inside and outside the Kurdistan region.Whoever would like to join this campaign, please contact us directly
#01-01-2021#