Musings of a former chicken

If I were to choose a favorite Iranian journalist/political analyst, it would be Ahmad Zeid-Abadi. I like his prose, love his no nonsense analysis and disarming demeanor. Of course being a Kermooni only adds to reasons for liking the guy.

Needless to say in IRR, the Islamist Rapist Republic, Ahmad Zeid-Abadie(s) of Iran are persona non grata. Ahmad’s work got the Islamist Rapists to imprison him again in August on a six-year sentence, and to impose a lifetime ban on practicing his profession as a journalist and political analyst. His punishment is reminiscent of the bans the racist South Africans used to impose on their opponents under the Apartheid laws.

The good news is people like Ahmad are not alone, not forgotten and very much appreciated. Here is the press release by the World’s Association of Newspapers and News Publishers in awarding him their Golden Pen of Freedom:

"All journalists are aware of the dangers of challenging the autocratic regime of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and the actions of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei. Mr Zeid-Abadi has chosen to repeatedly brave them and publicly support reform and the rule of law in Iran. He was sentenced to six years in prison, five years in internal exile in the town of Gonabad and a lifetime writing ban in the wake of the disputed presidential election in June. Mr Zeid-Abadi has refused to give in, despite the horrific conditions in which he is being held, and his courage makes us feel very humble. We hope Mr Zeid-Abadi's sentence will be overturned."

Ahmad will be in good company. Before him this award was given to Faraj Sarakouhi and also to Akbar Ganji. Kudos to Ahamd for all he has done for the cause of freedom.

//www.wan-press.org/pfreedom/articles.php?id=...