Six political parties and organisations issued a statement announcing a general strike on Wednesday, January 22, in Rojhilat (Eastern Kurdistan) against the death sentences handed down to Kurdish activists Warisha Moradi and Pakshan Azizi.

The joint statement by the Kurdistan Freedom Party, Party for a Free Life in Kurdistan (PJAK), Revolutionary Laborers Community of Kurdistan-Iran, Democratic Party of Kurdistan-Iran, Kurdistan Laborers Community and Kurdistan Organization of the Communist Party of Iran said the following:

“In an environment marked by a lack of political freedoms, unemployment, poverty, lack of services and many other social problems, the Iranian regime has sentenced dozens of political prisoners to death in Kurdistan and all over Iran instead of answering the demands of the people. In such an environment, urgent steps must be taken to stop the death sentences handed to Pakshan Azizi and Warisha Moradi. One of these steps is the declaration of a general strike in Kurdistan.

In Eastern Kurdistan there has always been a tradition of general strikes as an act of civil disobedience, especially in fragile times. Today, we are facing one of such times. The will of public opinion must prevent another tragedy and save the lives of people who have done nothing but love the people and fight for freedom and equality from the death penalty. This strike, which undoubtedly imposes itself in a civil and peaceful manner, can once again carry the message to the whole society to take action and protect itself as a 'Jin, Jiyan, Azadî' (Woman, Life, Freedom) revolution. This strike is also a voice for the political prisoners who courageously say 'No to the death penalty’ in more than 30 Iranian prisons every Tuesday.

We call on all the people of Kurdistan to participate in a general strike across Kurdistan on the 22nd of this month (Wednesday) against the death sentence against our struggling children. In addition, all workplaces, markets, schools should be closed and thus show the power of social unity to achieve political and humanitarian goals. This preventive step is an opportunity to save people's lives. Let us show once again that Kurdistan will not remain silent and will take a strong stand against the inhuman political power. Long live the unity and solidarity of Kurdistan society.”