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Narges Mohammadi’s children received the Nobel Peace Prize on her behalf during a ceremony in Oslo, Norway. Mohammadi is known for her advocacy for women’s rights and democracy in Iran, and for her opposition to the death penalty.
Ali and Kiana Rahmani, who are 17-year-old twins and reside in Paris with their father Mohammadi, were presented with a highly esteemed award at Oslo City Hall. They then delivered the Nobel Peace Prize lecture on behalf of their mother.
Mohammadi, who is 51 years old, received the Nobel Peace Prize in October 2023 for her persistent activism despite facing multiple arrests from Iranian authorities and serving time in prison. She is currently held in a jail located in Tehran.
During a press conference in Oslo on Saturday, Kiana Rahmani shared a statement from her mother. The message expressed gratitude towards the international media for bringing attention to the voices of those who oppose, protest, and defend human rights.
“Iranian society is in need of international assistance, and as journalists and media experts, you are our strongest and most crucial allies in the challenging fight against the oppressive rule of the Islamic Republic government. I offer my sincere gratitude for your dedication and all that you have done for us,” Mohammadi expressed in her message.
Kiana Rahmani expressed doubt about the possibility of reuniting with her mother.
She expressed that she may encounter her in 30 or 40 years, but she believes she will not have the chance to see her again. However, this does not hold much importance as her mother’s memory and principles will always remain in her heart, ones that are worth standing up for.
Mohammadi’s relatives informed the media in Oslo that she intended to participate in a hunger strike on Sunday as a show of support for the Baha’i religious minority in Iran.
Taghi, Rahmani’s spouse, stated that he has not been able to visit his wife for 11 years and their children have not seen their mother for seven years.
Mohammadi was a key figure in the demonstrations that were sparked by the passing of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who died while in police custody for supposedly breaking the strict hijab law in Iran, which mandates women to cover their hair and bodies completely.
Narges Mohammadi is the 19th female recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, making her the second Iranian woman to achieve this after human rights activist Shirin Ebadi won in 2003.
This marks the fifth instance in the 122-year existence of the awards where the Peace Prize has been awarded to an individual currently incarcerated or under house arrest.
The remaining Nobel prizes will be distributed during individual ceremonies in Stockholm on Sunday.
Source: independent.co.uk