We urgently draw your attention to the grave concerns surrounding the infringement, censoring, and imprisonment of journalists in KRG (Kurdistan Regional Government). On July 20th, 2023, Erbil Criminal Court sentenced Sherwan Sherwani, a Kurdish journalist, to an additional four years in prison, even though he had already been imprisoned since October 2020. His scheduled release on September 9th, 2023, was unjustly denied. This entire process appears to be a politically orchestrated attempt to silence and punish dissenting voices and independent journalists, weaponizing the legal system for the purpose.
KRG has a long history of oppressing, arresting, and silencing journalists, which has drawn widespread condemnation from journalists, activists, writers, NGOs, and concerned citizens. There are alarming reports suggesting that the Prime Minister of KRG, Masrour Barzani, may have exerted influence over the court’s decisions, not only regarding Sherwan Sherwani but also other imprisoned journalists and activists in Bahdinan, where Kirmanji-speaking people reside under the territory of Kurdistan in Iraq. This region holds significant influence and voting power for the Kurdish Democratic Party (KDP), making it crucial for party leaders to suppress any dissenting voices.
The international community, including the United States Consulate Representatives and State Departments, has repeatedly emphasized the importance of protecting and safeguarding Freedom of Speech in the region. Yet, it is evident that this fundamental right is frequently violated and suppressed. The case of Sherwan Sherwani and his fellow journalists in what is known as the Bahdenan Imprisonment Case highlights the blatant suppression of Freedom of Speech, where the institutional and judicial systems are weaponized for political gain and personal vendettas.
As the United States extends financial, military, and diplomatic assistance to KRG, it is essential to ensure that such support aligns with our strategic interests and core principles of Foreign Policy. The United States holds a highly favorable opinion among the Kurdistan Region Population, and our government officials and representatives must protect our national prestige and honor abroad. Consequently, turning a blind eye to the suppression of Freedom of Speech, imprisonment of journalists, and silencing of dissenting voices by our partners and allies will not only damage our reputation but also reflect negatively on our international standing.
Therefore, it is incumbent upon us to hold the KRG officials, especially Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, accountable for their violations and abuses. We call upon our government representatives to demand answers from the KRG representative in our country regarding the ongoing violations and suppression of the natural rights and aspirations of the Kurdish people in their homeland. We can no longer tolerate or overlook these consistent abuses and violations of human rights.
Furthermore, we urge KRG officials, including President Nechirvan Barzani and Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, to cease the weaponization of the judicial and institutional systems for political and personal gains. Baseless accusations and forced charges against journalists like Sherwan Sherwani should be dropped immediately, and he, along with his colleagues and families, deserves full compensation for the tremendous suffering they have endured, both financially and emotionally.
It is time to stand up for justice, freedom, and human rights, aligning our actions with our principles and values. The integrity of our support to regimes, governments, and officials overseas must not be compromised when dealing with those who have a long record of abusing and violating the natural rights of their people and citizens. Let us unite in demanding accountability and an end to these grave injustices.
KAG (Kurdish American Group)
P.O Box 376
Smyrna TN 37167