British billionaire and Virgin Group founder Richard Branson is adding his voice to high-profile figures condemning the death sentence handed down to Iranian dissident rapper Toomaj Salehi.
In a statement on the Virgin website, Branson expressed support for human rights activists advocating for Salehi’s release and the freedom of all prisoners in Iran.
"Toomaj and so many others must be freed," Branson wrote, emphasizing the importance of artistic freedom, stating that "open artistic expression should be welcomed and celebrated; it gives us opportunities to contemplate, reflect and debate. And it should never be persecuted – in Iran or elsewhere."
Salehi, one of Iran's most prominent rappers and a vocal and long-time critic of the regime, was sentenced to death last week by a non-independent Islamic Revolutionary Court under the charge of "corruption on earth."
The government’s intelligence ministry, which usually takes charge of sentencing dissidents, has historically exploited the vague term to target and silence them.
Salehi's years-long dissent took center stage during the nationwide 2022 anti-regime protests, where his outspokenness positioned him as one of the most prominent icons. For years, his music has resonated with many, particularly the youth who feel oppressed and silenced by the ruling authorities.
Branson’s statement also highlighted the ongoing human rights abuses in Iran, including the recent revelation that Nika Shakarami, a 16-year-old protester, was sexually assaulted and killed by Iranian security forces, contrary to official claims of her suicide.
The billionaire condemned the Iranian regime's continued violence and suppression, emphasizing the devastating impact on the nation's populace.
Branson's commentary also sheds light on the continued use of executions in Iran as a means to stifle dissent – with authorities having executed at least 853 people in 2023, many of whom were non-violent offenders or protesters.
