Iranian Authorities Urged to Stop Imminent Execution of Mohammad Reza Azizi
Why is Mohammad Reza Azizi Facing Execution?
- Mohammad Reza Azizi, now 21, was arrested at 17 and sentenced to death for a crime committed as a child.
- Iranian authorities plan to carry out his execution on October 21, 2024, in Shiraz, Fars province.
What Does Amnesty International Say?
Sara Hashash from Amnesty International condemns the planned execution as a violation of international law and children’s rights.
Why is this Execution Controversial?
- Legal documents show Mohammad Reza Azizi was interrogated without a lawyer and his ‘confessions’ were used against him.
- Amnesty International has urged Iranian authorities for a fair retrial emphasizing the prohibition of executing individuals who were under 18 at the time of the crime.
Background
Who is Mohammad Reza Azizi?
Mohammad Reza Azizi was arrested at 17 for murder, convicted, and sentenced to death by the Criminal Court in Fars province in 2021.
What Violations Have Been Noted?
- Azizi was interrogated without legal representation and his ‘maturity assessment’ for the crime remains contentious.
- The Legal Medicine Organization of Iran deemed him mentally mature at the time of the offense without solid evidence.
What is Amnesty International Advocating For?
Amnesty International urges Iranian authorities to halt the scheduled execution, review the case fairly, and uphold international juvenile justice principles.
In conclusion, Mohammad Reza Azizi’s case sheds light on the need for adherence to international law and children’s rights.
Source: www.amnesty.org