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| Ahmadinejad says detainee abuse was enemy plot |
| 2009-08-29 |
| [Iran Press TV Latest] Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad says foreign forces orchestrated the post-election turmoil in the country and are thus responsible for its controversial aftermath, including alleged mistreatment of detainees in Iranian jails. In a pre-sermon speech to Friday prayers worshippers in Tehran University, President Ahmadinejad said he is in possession of evidence that exonerates "revolutionary, military, security and intelligence forces" from any allegations of detainee abuse. The June 12 election was followed by massive street protests after the official results declared that the incumbent, President Ahmadinejad, was chosen by a massive margin to serve for another four years. The demonstrations, which provoked firm actions by the authorities, turned deadly when at least 30 people lost their lives and resulted in the arrest of thousands of protesters, opposition figures and journalists, as well as foreign suspects. Most of the detainees have since been released; while nearly 300 have so far stood mass trials. The issue of a nightly raid on Tehran University dormitories on June 14 was among controversial incidents in Iran's post-vote frenzy which drew fierce criticism from various political quarters. "The attack on (Tehran) University dorm and certain mistreatments in detention centers were foul deeds," President Ahmadinejad said. However, these acts "were parts of the enemy's plot and were carried out by 'coup' elements." His remarks come as Parliament is conducting investigations into the allegation of sexual abuse in Iranian jails after opposition figure Mehdi Karroubi, a former two-time Majlis speaker, plucked up the courage to broach the taboo subject. President Ahmadinejad, meanwhile, asked the Judiciary to "without mercy" judge the elements who, he said, "in the disguise of a friend, carried out inhumane acts" and stirred up the unrest. He also threw his weight behind calls for the prosecution of opposition leaders who are accused of devising plans that led to the recent deadly tumult. "Severe punishment must await the leaders of the movement and its main elements," Ahmadinejad said. "Lest they have immunity and lowly agents be punished cruelly." |
| Posted by:Fred |