Kianoosh Senjari, a prominent Iranian political activist and former prisoner, was found dead in Tehran in what eyewitnesses describe as an apparent suicide. In his last post on X (formerly Twitter), Senjari declared his plan to take his life if several political prisoners were not released, expressing deep frustration with Iran’s oppressive political climate.
Activist’s Final Plea for Freedom
Eyewitnesses in Tehran confirmed that Senjari, who had a turbulent history with the Iranian government, took his life in central Tehran on November 13. A few hours before, he posted a final message on X, stating, “No one should be imprisoned for expressing their opinions. Protest is the right of every person.” The message captured his ongoing fight for justice and his frustration with ongoing repression.
Senjari, known for his outspoken criticism of the regime, had been imprisoned multiple times on charges of “propaganda against the Islamic Republic.” After living abroad in the United States for several years, he returned to Iran in 2015, only to be arrested and sentenced to an 11-year prison term, including five years of hard labor. In recent years, he faced restrictions, including a travel ban and ongoing surveillance.
A Protest in Desperation
In his final post, Senjari set a deadline, demanding the release of four imprisoned activists: Fatemeh Sepehri, Nasrin Shakrami, Tomaj Salehi, and Arsham Rezaei. He stated that if they were not released by 7:00 p.m., he would end his life in protest. His words struck a nerve, especially among political activists who have also suffered under Iran’s judicial system.
The post read, “I will end my life in protest against the dictatorship of Khamenei.” At 7:00 p.m., he posted a photo on X and a final message that hinted at both despair and a call to action: “My life will end after this tweet, but we die for the love of life and not death. One day, Iranians will awaken and overcome slavery.”
A History of Resistance and Sacrifice
Senjari had a long and troubled history with the Iranian government, having been arrested, imprisoned, and censored multiple times. His activism placed him in the crosshairs of authorities, who viewed his calls for reform and political freedom as a direct threat. In a previous X post, he described himself as a “political prisoner of conscience,” arrested for his social media posts that were deemed inflammatory.
In October 2022, Senjari returned to Iran despite the risks, and his presence soon led to his re-arrest. Following a rare amnesty that released thousands of political prisoners, he was set free, but the conditions of his release were harsh. His last days were marked by financial struggles and declining health, exacerbated by his inability to find stable work due to his political status. In a final show of desperation, Senjari attempted to sell his social media profile to cover basic needs and medical costs.
An Outpouring of Grief and Calls for Justice
Political activists Abdullah Momeni and Hossein Ronaghi, both of whom have served time in Evin Prison, reported from the scene. They confirmed that Senjari’s body was found at a central location in Tehran, with evidence pointing to suicide. Momeni and Ronaghi’s reports added legitimacy to the tragic event, confirming to the world that one of Iran’s outspoken dissidents had taken his life in protest.
The news of Senjari’s death sent shockwaves through Iran’s activist community. Many have used social media to honor his legacy, reflecting on his commitment to human rights. His final message, calling for a future where “Iranians will awaken and overcome slavery,” is now being shared widely, sparking discussions on freedom, rights, and government accountability.
A Tragic Reflection of Iran’s Political Climate
Senjari’s tragic story highlights the dangerous conditions for political activists in Iran. Despite years of repression, he continued to fight for his beliefs, even at the cost of his own life. His death has raised serious questions about the rights of Iranian citizens to express dissent, and it underscores the personal sacrifices many activists are willing to make.
The apparent suicide of Kianoosh Senjari serves as a somber reminder of the high stakes for activists in Iran’s current political climate. His final words resonate as a call to action for Iranians and the international community alike. As tributes pour in, Senjari’s legacy stands as a powerful symbol of courage and the ongoing struggle for freedom in Iran.
