Mostafa Tajzadeh, a jailed Iranian activist and former cabinet member, is facing new charges of “propaganda” against the state. Tajzadeh, a key figure in Iran’s reformist movement, has been imprisoned in Tehran’s Evin prison since July 2022. He previously served as deputy interior minister under President Mohammad Khatami, who led a period of rapprochement with the West from 1997 to 2005.
In October 2022, Tajzadeh was sentenced to five years in prison on charges of “plotting against state security.” Now, new charges have been brought against him, including “propaganda against the Islamic republic.” Despite spending a total of seven years behind bars, Tajzadeh continues to be vocal about political issues through social media channels.
Refusing to appear in court for the new case, Tajzadeh could face an additional six years in jail if convicted. He has been a strong advocate for democratization and structural changes within Iran’s political system. Tajzadeh’s case highlights the ongoing challenges faced by reformists in Iran’s political landscape.