NGO calls for investigation into death of Iranian blogger

By JPOST.COM STAFF
The Freedom House, an NGO which monitors human rights and free speech limitations throughout the world, called on Friday for an independent investigation into the recent death of an Iranian blogger, who was imprisoned two years ago for posting negative blogs against Iran's leadership. "Omidreza Mirsayafi's death illustrates the dangerously inhospitable environment in which bloggers operate in Iran," said Jennifer Windsor, Freedom House executive director. "Mirsayafi should never have been subjected in the first place to the cruel conditions found in Iran's most notorious prison. At a time when President Obama is attempting to engage Iran, it is essential that the United States see Iran's regime beginning to demonstrate a greater respect for human rights." According to the organization, Iranian authorities said that Mirsayafi was suffering from depression and died of an overdose from tranquilizers on Wednesday in Teheran's Evin Prison.