The “No to Execution Tuesdays” campaign, marked by weekly hunger strikes led by prisoners, has now entered its 115th week. This milestone comes amid the execution of six of its longstanding members. Despite mounting pressure, participants have reaffirmed their commitment to continuing both the hunger strikes and their protest the death penalty.
Prisoners involved in the campaign have stated that they remain committed to the principles of “No to Execution Tuesdays” and will persist with their hunger strikes. This is taking place under conditions of severe communication disruption, as internet shutdowns and restrictions have significantly hindered the flow of information. Nevertheless, available reports indicate that the hunger strikes inside prisons have not ceased and continue despite these constraints.
The continuation of these hunger strikes under conditions of enforced communication blackout underscores the resilience and persistence of the campaign under some of the most challenging circumstances.
Execution of Six Longtime Members of the Campaign
During the current week, six longtime members of the “No to Execution Tuesdays” campaign were executed. Their names are Vahid Bani Amerian, Mohammad Taghavi, Babak Alipour, Pouya Ghobadi, Abolhassan Montazer, and Akbar Daneshvar Kar.
These individuals were recognized figures within the campaign and had previously participated in its weekly hunger strikes. They join two other members, Behrouz Ehsani and Mehdi Hassani, who had been executed earlier. With these latest executions, the number of campaign members who have been put to death has further increased.
Families’ Resilience as the Backbone of the Campaign
A central pillar sustaining the “No to Execution Tuesdays” campaign has been the consistent and determined presence of the families of prisoners sentenced to death. Mothers, fathers, siblings, and relatives have continued to raise their voices in protest on a weekly basis despite ongoing security pressures.
Fully aware of the risks associated with public dissent, including summons, threats, detention, and psychological pressure, these families have refused silence and maintained their presence. The continuity of the campaign is, to a significant extent, the result of this steadfastness.
Had these families retreated, the “No to Execution Tuesdays” campaign would likely have diminished over time. Instead, despite all constraints, they have sustained their protests and transformed what could have remained a temporary reaction into an enduring movement. In practice, their persistence has played a decisive role in keeping opposition to the death penalty alive.
