Iranian Rapper Sentenced To Death For Criticism Of Government, Recording Academy Voices
JAKARTA - An Iranian rapper was sentenced to death for his work. Toomaj Salehi (33) was sentenced to severe punishment after throwing a work criticizing the government.
The news was conveyed to the media by oomaj's attorney, Amir Raesian. "The order for the execution of the death penalty on Toomaj Salehi has been issued," he said as quoted by Variety.
The rapper dealt with the government after protesting over the death of Jina 'Mahsa' Amini. This Iranian Kurdish woman received harsh treatment and died from Iranian police just because she wore a head covering loosely.
The threat of the death penalty on Toomaj Salehi has drawn reactions from various parties. A number of US rap musicians voiced their protest against the Iranian government, one of which was Meek Mill.
"Dihukum mati hanya karena sebuah lagu, freekan pria itu, mencuruhnya. Free Toomaj!" tulis Mill di platform X Kamis lalu.
The Recording Academy also submitted its protests in writing.
"The Recording Academy is deeply disturbed by the recent news about Toomaj Salehi. No artist needs to be afraid that his life will be threatened because he expresses himself through his work," wrote the agency that initiated the Grammys.
"We are with music creators around the world who are taking advantage of their talents to provide enlightenment to humanitarian conditions, and we will continue to work tirelessly to protect freedom of work," he concluded.