All Pakistan Trade Union Federation

Protest Message

His Excellency Mahmoud Ahmadinejad
President
Islamic Republic of Iran
Palestine Avenue, Azerbaijan Intersection
Tehran, Islamic Republic of Iran
Email: [email protected]

President Ahmadinejad,

Let me tell you briefly that All Pakistan Trade Union Federation is a national trade union center in Pakistan, working for uplift, better working and living condition of working class and ignored segment of the society. Its our aim to abolish bonded and child labor and carry on struggle to eradicate all sorts of discriminations against men and women, by forming strong and effective women and youth wings. APTUF is struggling for peace, democracy and social justice too.

On behalf of All Pakistan Trade Union Federation and its hundred thousands members we strongly condemned the confirmation of the death sentence of teacher trade unionist, Farzad Kamangar. I support the campaigns of the Iranian Teachers’ Association and of EI to have his case re-examined through a fair trial that meets Iranian and international standards. I also urge the authorities to immediately commute Farzad Kamangar’s death sentence.

According to Mr Kamangar’s lawyer, there is no evidence to justify that he has “endangered national security” or is “Mohareb” (at enmity with God). I also deplore that Iranian trade union colleagues and human rights activists who show solidarity with Farzad are being subjected to pervasive intimidation by the Iranian authorities.

APTUF strongly request you to immediately stop harassment of Iranian trade unionists and human right activists who are supporting Mr. Kamangar by the Iranian authorities.

The harassment, detention and condemnation of trade unionists because of their legitimate human and trade union activities are not only serious violations of trade union rights, but also create an atmosphere of fear prejudicial to trade union development in Iran.

In addition, I deplore that Mr Kamangar has been tortured while in detention and was denied medical treatment. I urge the Iranian authorities to investigate into the reports of torture and to ensure that, in future, no detainee is tortured or ill-treated.

I look forward to hearing about your positive intervention in this regard.

Yours sincerely

Gulzar Ahmed Chaudhary

Secretary General

All Pakistan Trade Union Federation

Rubina Jamil

President

Working Women Organization