A widespread general strike swept through cities and villages in East Kurdistan on Wednesday, January 22, as thousands protested the death sentence of Pakhshan Azizi, a Kurdish political prisoner.

Reports confirmed that in key cities such as Saqiz, Mahabad, Marivan, and Sanaa, all shops and markets remained shuttered. In other parts of East Kurdistan, a significant number of businesses and marketplaces also closed in solidarity with the strike.

The protest was initiated after six political parties in East Kurdistan released a joint statement on January 20, urging Kurdish people to take action. The statement called for a peaceful general strike to oppose the death penalty imposed on Azizi and to demonstrate collective resistance.

“We call on all Kurdish people to participate in a general strike against the death sentence of our sons on Wednesday, January 22, and to close all workplaces, markets, and schools,” the statement read. It emphasized the importance of unity in achieving both political and humanitarian goals.

The situation escalated after Amir Raisian, Azizi’s lawyer, confirmed on January 8, 2024, that the death sentence was upheld by the 39th branch of the Supreme Court. Azizi is currently held in Evin prison, a facility notorious for housing political prisoners.

The strike has highlighted growing tensions in the region and the resilience of the Kurdish population in the face of what they see as unjust treatment of political prisoners. Observers say the unified response underscores the determination of the Kurdish community to fight for justice and human rights.

Jinamedia.net