Alireza Golipour, a prominent political prisoner and supporter of the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK), passed away on Saturday, September 7, 2024, in Tehran due to heart disease. His death marks the end of a long struggle against oppression and injustice in Iran.
Early Life and Education
Golipour was pursuing a Ph.D. in electrical engineering when he was first arrested in 2009. This arrest was likely related to his involvement in pro-democracy activities and his support for the PMOI/MEK, a prominent opposition group in Iran.
Imprisonment and Persecution
In 2012, Golipour was arrested for a second time and sentenced to 15 years in prison. The charges against him included supporting the PMOI and exposing the Iranian regime’s nuclear activities. However, some sources indicate that his sentence was even harsher, with reports of a 39-year prison term and 74 lashes. During his imprisonment, Golipour faced severe health challenges:
- He developed lung cancer and suffered from continuous nose bleeds
- Golipour also had epilepsy, which made his time in prison particularly dangerous
- Despite his critical health condition, he was repeatedly denied proper medical care
Resistance and Solidarity
Despite the harsh conditions and deteriorating health, Golipour’s spirit remained unbroken. In 2016, he sent a powerful message to the Free Iran Rally from prison, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom in Iran. He wrote, “With a heart full of longing for you, a cheerful heart from your companionship, and standing tall for your cause, I shout loudly: As a younger brother, I stand firm.”
Release and Final Years
In 2021, after nine years of imprisonment, Golipour was finally released due to his severe illness and deteriorating health. However, the years of mistreatment and lack of proper medical care had taken their toll. On September 7, 2024, Alireza Golipour passed away in Tehran due to heart disease.
Legacy
Alireza Golipour’s life and death serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing struggle for human rights and democracy in Iran. His resilience in the face of extreme adversity, his unwavering support for the PMOI/MEK, and his dedication to exposing the Iranian regime’s activities have made him a symbol of resistance for many Iranians seeking freedom and justice. As we remember Alireza Golipour, we are reminded of the countless other political prisoners in Iran who continue to face persecution, torture, and denial of basic human rights. His story underscores the urgent need for international attention and action to address the human rights situation in Iran and to support those who risk everything in the pursuit of freedom and democracy.
