It's hard for us to know the truth of this case because the Iranian authorities are not allowing the World to see the evidence and review it. Her own lawyer was not allowed to see documents and prepare her defence! The President of Iran has ordered that she may be allowed a full defence so we can only hope that a properly defended appeal will follow. However, in a parallel case, a girl was put to death quickly, despite orders for a stay of execution from above, so I am not sure that the President's words will be matched with action.
As for Roxana's judgement, I trust a comment from her BBC colleague who knew Roxana, who said that Roxana was aware of the strict, uncompromising regime and was very careful at all times. It seems she was working with the permission of the authorities, no longer as a journalist but doing research for her book.
The press card charge is just an excuse to hold her and use her life as a bargaining chip.
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ReplyDeleteIt's hard for us to know the truth of this case because the Iranian authorities are not allowing the World to see the evidence and review it. Her own lawyer was not allowed to see documents and prepare her defence! The President of Iran has ordered that she may be allowed a full defence so we can only hope that a properly defended appeal will follow. However, in a parallel case, a girl was put to death quickly, despite orders for a stay of execution from above, so I am not sure that the President's words will be matched with action.
ReplyDeleteAs for Roxana's judgement, I trust a comment from her BBC colleague who knew Roxana, who said that Roxana was aware of the strict, uncompromising regime and was very careful at all times. It seems she was working with the permission of the authorities, no longer as a journalist but doing research for her book.
The press card charge is just an excuse to hold her and use her life as a bargaining chip.
In a free society a press card is not required.
If we are not sure of the facts how can we sign a petition?
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