40 Weeks of “Tuesdays Against Execution” Marked by Intensifying Protest
On Tuesday, October 29, 2024, marking the 40th consecutive week of the “Tuesdays Against Execution” campaign, a large gathering of families of death row prisoners protested in Tehran. Demonstrators marched toward the Iranian parliament, raising their voices with chants of “Do not execute!” This demonstration followed a similar protest held last week, where families assembled outside parliament in a call to halt the executions.
Over the past year, a wave of protests has been witnessed in Tehran and Karaj, where families of inmates on death row have rallied against the country’s escalating execution rates. These gatherings have often been met with a strong response from security forces.
Growing Momentum and Participation in the Campaign
As the 40th week of the “Tuesdays Against Execution” campaign unfolded, the inclusion of Kahnuj Prison increased the number of participating facilities to 24 nationwide, indicating a significant expansion in support and visibility for the movement.
Disturbing Reports from Prisoners
In a statement released by inmates involved in the campaign, prisoners condemned the rising number of executions, saying, “In the oppressive regime ruling Iran, executions are on the rise daily.” The report noted that between October 22 and October 25, 2024, authorities carried out 27 executions, averaging about seven per day. Since the start of the year, nearly 567 individuals have reportedly been executed, with 150 of these taking place between September 22 and October 21 alone.
The report also highlighted the execution of Jamshid Sharmahd, who was put to death on Monday following four years of imprisonment in a security detention center. Officials had reportedly denied Sharmahd transfer to a general prison ward, allegedly to obscure evidence of torture and other human rights abuses.
Defiance Amidst Oppression
In their statement, the striking prisoners affirmed, “Despite relentless repression and efforts to instill fear, resistance and resilience persist.” The 40-week campaign has shown no signs of slowing, with families of death row inmates courageously gathering in front of parliament to protest Iran’s execution practices.
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