The Voice of Mirza Xazar

On behalf of the Association for the Defence of Azerbaijani Political Prisoners in Iran (ADAPP), I express my deepest condolences on the death of Qulamrza Emani and his two brothers, Jefer and Kerim Emani. Three brothers died on the morning of October 24, 2008 in the Azerbaijan of Iran.

Among those of the new generation of Azerbaijani activists, Emani was unparalleled. During his many years of imprisonment, he endured unbelievable hardship and torture. Despite all, Emani continued his activism; his tireless efforts, inspired many of the younger generation to fight for their national, civil and human rights peacefully.

Qulamrza Emani obtained his Bachelaur of Science in Agriculture from the engineering school of the University of Tabriz in 1996. The government never permitted him to work in his field. Rather, he devoted all his time and effort on securing linguistic, cultural and human rights of Azerbaijani and other Iranian non-Persian minorities. He was repeatedly detained for his activism; he served over 5 years in prison. As a respected activist, public speaker and community organizer, he endured much but never gave up.
Emani’s death is a grave loss to his family, the nation and the community of Azerbaijani activists. We, Azerbaijani rights activists within and beyond the ADAPP, are shocked and saddened by this tragedy. The Azerbaijani national movement has lost a brave son and a star in the infinite horizon of Azerbaijan history. His courage, loyalty and vision will remain in our hearts and will inspire us all to continue to struggle for democracy, freedom of speech and human rights.

Eventhough he is gone, his light will continue to shine.

Fakhteh Zamani
Director, Association for the Defence of Azerbaijani Political Prisoners in Iran (ADAPP)
October 26, 2008